Ronaldo! the Viral Catchphrase

Ronaldo! is a Brazilian internet meme that spawned out of an interview segment from a popular Brazillian comedy show called Pânico na TV (Panic on TV). Among those interviewed on the show that day was Zina, a young, enthusiastic fan of the FC Corinthians (a well-known Brazilian soccer club) who appeared a tad bit nervous and blank before the camera. When the VJ host asked for his thoughts on the current situation of the Corinthians, Zina simply replied “Ronaldo!” three times and went on to say " “E brilha muito no Corinthians!," which means “Ronaldo shines in Corinthians!” in English. Ronaldo is an international soccer player (FC Corinthians) and a symbol of pride for many Brazillian soccer fans.

Ronaldo the Football Phenomenon

Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima (Pronounced Ho' nawdu) is a Brazillian professional footballer currently playing for the Corinthians. As a former member of Brazil's national football team, Ronaldo appeared in 97 international matches and amassed 62 A-match goals; he also became the highest goal scorer in the history of the World Cup with fifteen goals during 2006 World Cup games. Along with the legendary Pelé, Ronaldo is widely regarded by world soccer fans and playesr as one of the greatest striker in the history of football.

Derivatives & Remixes

Baffled and amused by his awkward demeanor and random response, Corinthians supporters instantly embraced both "Ronaldo!" and "Ronaldo shines in Corinthians" as signature catch phrases; there are countless remixes and parodies of the interview footage on YouTube.

Zina Meets Ronaldo

After Zina went sensational on the web, the staff at Panico na TV arranged a meet-up between the legendary soccer player and his biggest fan. During the meet up, Ronaldo came to confess that he's never heard his name called out so much as he does now, thanks to the meme.