What was meant to be a simple birthday celebration turned into an unexpected online storm for footballer Pedro.
The former Chelsea and Barcelona winger recently marked his son Marc’s eighth birthday with a fun-filled family outing in Tenerife.
But rather than the joy of the day taking centre stage, it was the outfit worn by his son that set off a fierce social media reaction.
A Birthday Party With All the Joyful Details
Pedro and his ex-wife Carolina Martin came together to celebrate their son Marc’s special day at a waterpark, making sure it was full of smiles, cake, and memorable moments.
Despite divorcing in 2017, the couple continues to co-parent their three children.
They appeared as a united front in the birthday photos, which showed young Marc happily dressed in a tiara and a dress, seated in front of a colorful Lilo & Stitch cake.
From Family Moment to Online Outrage
Unfortunately, the internet didn’t all see the celebration through a positive lens.
After Pedro posted the images online, backlash quickly followed.
A segment of users criticized him for allowing his son to wear what’s traditionally considered “girls’ clothing.”
Comments ranged from judgmental to outright hostile.
One person wrote, “Raise your son as a man because this ain’t it,” while another asked bluntly, “Bro, what is wrong with u?”
Supporters Applaud Pedro’s Parenting
Despite the criticism, Pedro also received an outpouring of support.
Many followers praised him for embracing his son’s choices and allowing Marc the freedom to express himself.
One supportive fan commented, “You are an EXEMPLARY father, especially to the footballing world around you.”
Another shared, “You were a champion on the pitch, and now we see you’re a champion off it too — a great person and a wonderful dad.”
Others highlighted the importance of letting children explore their identity at their own pace.
One comment read, “Very good, Pedro, that you respect your son and allow him to experiment and discover who he is. Happy birthday, Marc.”
Pedro’s Football Career Still Going Strong
While this parenting moment brought Pedro into the spotlight for different reasons, he remains active on the football scene.
Now 37, he plays for Serie A side Lazio, having joined them from Roma in 2021.
Pedro’s football journey has been impressive, with a decorated career that includes time at Barcelona — where he rose through the famed La Masia academy — and five years at Chelsea, where he helped the club win the Premier League and the FA Cup.
An Icon With a Legacy Beyond the Pitch
Pedro has enjoyed a stellar professional run, having scored 210 goals across 869 senior club appearances and earning 25 major trophies.
His international resume is equally impressive, including a World Cup win in 2010 and a European Championship title in 2012 with Spain.
But perhaps what’s now defining Pedro even more than his football accolades is the way he’s choosing to parent.
By prioritizing his child’s happiness over societal expectations, Pedro is showing that love and support can sometimes be the most powerful legacy of all.
So, What Comes Next?
Whether or not he responds publicly to the criticism, it’s clear Pedro is standing by his family.
And while online voices will always be divided, moments like these shine a light on the evolving definitions of parenting, identity, and what it means to support those we love — especially when they need it most.