The Portuguese forward, who has been handed the number nine jersey, was greeted by Alfredo di Stefano - considered the greatest player to have worn that particular shirt - Eusebio and Florentino Perez, the club president whose re-election prompted Ronaldo's £80million signing from Manchester United.

"I am just so happy to be here," he said to a rapturous reception from the gathered thousands.

"For me, I have made my childhood dream a reality, which was nothing less than playing for Real Madrid.

"I didn't expect a jam-packed stadium - this is truly impressive."

Vintage start to the Open Written in a castle with limited connectivity, Dan Nicholl talks up the Scottish experience.

Is the Tri-Nations needed? iafrica.com columnist Jon Harris is struggling to get excited about the 2009 Tri-Nations.

How to beat the 'bonk' With riders burning 10,000 calories per day, the right fuel is essential to avoid the 'bonk'.