A photograph seemingly showcasing football star Cristiano Ronaldo proposing to Georgina Rodriguez has been causing a stir online. However, detailed analysis suggests that the image in question might, in fact, be the product of artificial intelligence (AI).
The image, which has been circulating on various online platforms, presents a romantic scene purporting to capture a pivotal moment in the lives of the superstar footballer and his long-time partner. But upon closer inspection, elements of the image appear to be incongruent with reality. Observers have pointed out certain elements, such as strange facial distortions and irregularities with shadowing that are inconsistent with general photography.
Experts who have analyzed the photograph suggest it may well be the result of automated software known as deepfake technology. Deepfaking, a technology that uses AI to produce or alter video content so that it presents something that didn’t actually happen, has become increasingly problematic as it can be used to spread disinformation or create convincing hoaxes.
The process of creating such deepfaked images involves the use of neural networks–a set of algorithms modeled loosely on the human brain. These networks “learn” to replicate the appearance of the object or person being depicted, often leading to hyper-realistic but ultimately fabricated representations.
This photo adds to the instances where AI has been used to warp our perception of reality. It serves as a reminder of the importance of cross-checking before sharing possible misinformation.
Last modified: February 26, 2025
