Brazilian footballing icon Hulk turned back the clock in spectacular fashion on Sunday night, scoring an astonishing free-kick from over 40 yards for Atletico Mineiro.
A Thunderbolt from the Past
The 39-year-old forward unleashed a trademark left-footed rocket during his side's 5-0 thrashing of Vasco da Gama in the Brazilian top flight. The incredible effort, which came just after the hour mark to make it 2-0, was a stark reminder of the power that made him a cult hero for the Brazilian national team.
Placing the ball a staggering distance from goal, Hulk took a lengthy run-up before connecting with ferocious power. The ball flew past a stunned defensive wall and a floundering goalkeeper, sending the home crowd at the Mineirão stadium into raptures. The veteran wheeled away in celebration with teammates, reliving the glory of his peak years.
Social Media Erupts for Veteran's Power
The strike immediately ignited social media, with fans and pundits alike marvelling at the veteran's undiminished strength. One supporter declared the shot was "not a free kick. That is a rocket on a booster," while others expressed disbelief that a player of his age could generate such velocity.
Comparisons were inevitably drawn to another Brazilian set-piece legend, with one fan posting: "Roberto Carlos would be proud." The goal was a potent symbol of Hulk's enduring legacy; a player who has officially registered one of the fastest shots ever recorded in football, clocked at over 70mph.
A Storied Career Nearing Its Twilight
Hulk's journey to this moment began at Brazilian club Vitória in 2004. After a stint in Japan, his career catapulted at Porto, where his performances earned him a Brazil debut against England in 2009. A big-money move to Zenit St Petersburg followed in 2012, and he was a member of the infamous 2014 World Cup squad that suffered a 7-1 semi-final defeat to Germany.
A lucrative spell in China with Shanghai Port FC, where he was among the world's highest-paid players, preceded his emotional return home. Since joining Atletico Mineiro in 2021, he has cemented his legendary status at the club, becoming their top scorer of the 21st century. His latest wonder-strike proves that even at 39, the power that earned him his superhero moniker is very much intact.
