Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger payed homage to his roots as he celebrated their Champions League victory by flying the Sierra Leone flag.
Antonio Rudiger, the German defender with strong ties to Sierra Leone, proudly displayed the Sierra Leonean national flag as Real Madrid clinched the 2024 UEFA Champions League title with a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium.
Spanish defender Dani Carvajal and Brazilian attacker Vinicius Jr netted crucial goals in the 74th and 83rd minutes respectively, securing Real Madrid's triumph.
Rudiger's standout performances throughout the Champions League campaign were pivotal in Real Madrid's success. Notably, his decisive penalty in the quarter-finals against reigning champions Manchester City proved crucial.
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Beyond his on-field contributions, Rudiger's deep connection to Sierra Leone shines through his philanthropic efforts and commitment to the country's development. In 2022, he launched a foundation for education in Sierra Leone, and he has visited the country multiple times for charitable causes.
Born in Germany in 1993 to a Sierra Leonean mother who fled the civil war, Rudiger has maintained a strong bond with his mother's homeland.
In recognition of his efforts and attachment to Sierra Leone, he was appointed as the 'Brand Global Sierra Leone Football Ambassador' by Sierra Leonean President Dr Julius Maada Bio in 2022, receiving the country's diplomatic passport.
Real Madrid's victory marks their sixth Champions League trophy in the last decade and their 15th overall.
For Rudiger, this triumph adds to his European accolades, having previously won the Champions League with Chelsea and now twice with Real Madrid.
Notably, Rudiger's achievement makes him the first Sierra Leonean native to claim a UEFA Champions League title, further solidifying his legacy both on and off the pitch.
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