LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a creative crossover, FIFA paid tribute to three football legends—Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Carlos Tevez—on their birthdays with a special post inspired by the hit song ‘Naatu Naatu’ from RRR.
The official FIFA World Cup Instagram account shared an animated poster featuring the three athletes performing the signature dance step from the Oscar-winning song.
Interestingly, their initials—N (Neymar), T (Tevez), and R (Ronaldo)—spell out “NTR,” a fun coincidence that links them to Telugu superstar Jr NTR, one of the lead actors of RRR.
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Jr NTR’s reaction to FIFA’s tribute
Jr NTR, known for his global recognition after ‘RRR,’ responded to FIFA’s post with humor and enthusiasm.
This unexpected crossover between Indian cinema and global football caught the attention of fans worldwide, making it one of the most talked-about moments on social media.
The actor commented, “Haha… Happy Birthday Neymar, Tevez, Ronaldo!”—a lighthearted acknowledgment that delighted fans.
His response quickly gained traction, with social media users praising FIFA’s creativity in blending pop culture with sports.
Global impact of ‘Naatu Naatu’
The song ‘Naatu Naatu’ has become a global sensation since winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2023. FIFA’s use of the dance step in their tribute further highlights the song’s international appeal and its influence beyond cinema.
With Jr NTR’s growing global fanbase and RRR’s continued success, such cultural crossovers between Indian cinema and international sports may become more frequent in the future.
As Indian cinema continues to gain worldwide recognition, moments like these highlight the growing influence of its stars and their work. Jr NTR’s expanding fanbase, both in India and internationally, is proof that Indian films and their cultural impact are stronger than ever.
