Pic: Cristiano Ronaldo fan takes obsession with Real Madrid star to extreme levels

Changing your appearance in a bid to resemble your idol is an expensive habit.

A 17-year-old from Denmark has taken his obsession with Cristiano Ronaldo to an extreme level. Shanta, who's adopted the Real Madrid superstar's second name, has splashed out on thousands of euros to try to look like the Portuguese footballer.

"My obsession for Cristiano is enormous. I've no idea how much I've spent emulating him it's definitely in the thousands though. The reason I wanted to get a life like him is that he is rich, famous and living the life. He's not just my passion, but he motivates me."

https://twitter.com/ShantaRonaldo/status/623509152237756416 The teen refers to himself as Cristiano, has made five trips to Madrid this year alone, and has met his idol a number of times.  

"I've met him for a couple of times and I can't explain such a fantastic person he is. He used his time very good for me where we spoke a lot. I waited every day at Valdebebas [where Real Madrid train] from 9am to 2pm just to see him. Now, he knows me it means every time I go to Madrid I can meet him, which I am so proud of."

Although he spends his life emulating someone else, Shanta... eh, I mean, Cristiano believes that he is still staying true to himself.

"All my friends, my family call me Cristiano Ronaldo. They know my passion and respect it. Some may think I'm crazy, but that's the way I am. People tell me, 'be yourself' but I cannot be myself more than I am now."

Hat-tip to the Mirror