Renowned football sensation Cristiano Ronaldo has sent shockwaves across social media platforms with his latest transformation.

The typically clean-cut athlete, currently playing for Al Nassr, has been the subject of widespread fascination after images of him sporting a full beard emerged online, as reported by the Daily Mail.

Ronaldo, known for his immaculate grooming and consistent appearance throughout his illustrious career, has stunned fans with this unexpected alteration. The viral photos depict the 39-year-old footballer flaunting a significantly different look, prompting a flurry of reactions from his devoted followers.

While many admirers expressed admiration for Ronaldo's newfound rugged aesthetic, doubts regarding the authenticity of the images began to surface. Several social media users speculated whether the striking beard was a product of advanced artificial intelligence, rather than a genuine transformation undergone by the athlete.

Comments flooded various platforms, with one user remarking, "Looking good on him but I know this is AI generated, looks so real," echoing the sentiments of numerous skeptics. Another added, "Isn’t that AI?"

Interestingly, comparisons swiftly emerged, with some suggesting that Ronaldo's bearded appearance bore a striking resemblance to his compatriot and international teammate, Bernardo Silva, as well as former Manchester United star Michael Carrick.

However, clarity regarding the authenticity of the images emerged when it was revealed that Ronaldo himself had shared similar snapshots on his official Instagram profile. The images showcased the football icon engaged in training sessions with his teammates, confirming that the bearded look was indeed real and not a product of digital manipulation.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo's absence from the recent Al-Nassr vs Al Feiha match raised eyebrows among fans, as the star player was suspended following a controversial incident during the Saudi Cup semi-final. The Portuguese forward was handed a red card for actions perceived as elbowing and stamping on an opponent, leading to his suspension from the Saudi Pro League clash.