The trend of painting toenails black has caught on among sports icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and MMA fighters, leaving fans and followers puzzled about the reason behind this cosmetic choice.
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon D’Or winner, caused a frenzy on social media when he shared a photo on his Instagram story after a recent game, where he was seen sitting in a sauna wearing only black briefs and black nail polish on his toes to match.
Twitter was abuzz with comments and questions about Ronaldo’s black toenails, with some users expressing confusion and others showing support.
This, however, is not the first time Ronaldo has been spotted with painted toenails. Earlier this year, UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou shared posts featuring Ronaldo with black nails peeking out of his sliders.
While it may seem like a fashion statement, there is actually a scientific purpose behind this trend. According to the German outlet Bild, athletes, including MMA fighters like Mike Tyson and former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski, paint their toenails or cover them with a protective layer to prevent fungi and bacteria from causing infections. Many athletes do this to protect their nails from the effects of prolonged exposure to sweaty shoes during training and competitions.
The nail polish acts as a barrier that helps prevent the toenails from cracking or splitting during rigorous physical activity, such as fights or matches.
By hardening the nails, the polish minimizes the risk of nail injuries during the action-packed moments of their respective sports.
This practice of painting toenails black has become a health trend among athletes, including prominent sports icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and MMA fighters.
It serves a practical purpose beyond just aesthetics, as it helps protect the athletes’ nails from potential infections and injuries. The trend has gained traction among sports professionals who recognize the importance of maintaining their foot health while competing at the highest level.
So, the next time you spot athletes like Ronaldo or MMA fighters with black toenails, know that there is a method to their madness. It’s not just a fashion statement, but a practical choice aimed at safeguarding their foot health and performance in their respective sports.
