Watch out, professional soccer players. There’s a new threat in town who’s not just talented on two legs, but on all four!
This up and coming soccer star is an 11-year old white lion named Triton.
Don’t let his impressive size fool you. Triton is light and graceful on his feet, especially when he’s playing with his favorite toy: a soccer ball.
Triton hails from the Johannesburg Zoo in South Africa where he was born and raised.
According to Agnes Maluleke, the Johannesburg’ zookeeper in charge of the carnivore section, Triton clearly favors his trusty soccer ball.
In fact, he likes it so much that he refuses to play with any of the other seven female lions that he shares his enclosure space with.
His face lights up whenever Agnes tosses the ball into his enclosure, and he’ll pass it and kick it between his paws and follow it wherever it rolls off to – even the water!
It just goes to show that regardless of a feline’s size – whether it’s the King of the Jungle or a household cat – every furry kitty loves playing with toys!
According to the Lion Den, games are very important for a lion’s development: “Most of their play imitates behaviors they will use as adults including stalking and fighting. Play is an important way for cubs to learn these adult skills as well as to form strong social bonds with their companions.”
With his impressive dribbling skills, Agnes thinks “all soccer players can come and learn a thing or two from Triton, because he’s the best soccer player.”
And with over 4 million views on the video, others were quick to agree – and quip witty jokes too.
Do you think you can take Triton on in a classic game of football? He looks like quite a fierce opponent!
Please SHARE this talented lion’s skill with your friends and family.
