Cristo Fernandez, best known for his role as Dani Rojas on the Apple TV series “Ted Lasso,” has recently made a notable return to professional soccer. The 35-year-old actor debuted with El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship, the second tier of men’s professional soccer in the United States, marking a significant step in reviving a career interrupted by injury over two decades ago.

Fernandez’s connection to soccer dates back to his teenage years in Guadalajara, Mexico, where he played professionally before a knee injury forced him to change paths. His transition into acting eventually led to the role of Dani Rojas, a character celebrated for his joyous, dedicated approach to the sport. The experience of portraying a professional athlete reignited Fernandez’s passion for the game, motivating him to pursue soccer once again.

In an interview, Fernandez explained that his work on “Ted Lasso” required him to look and move like a professional player, which rekindled his commitment to soccer. The involvement with the series also gave him the opportunity to interact with some of his childhood idols, including Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Jorge Campos, Luis Hernández, and Andrés Guardado. These encounters further fueled his determination to return to the field despite previous setbacks.

Fernandez described his comeback as more than a casual return to the sport, viewing it as a personal journey of perseverance. He acknowledged the physical demands of playing professionally and noted that the path to success in both acting and athletics requires sustained effort and resilience. He also shared that the passing of his father last December played a crucial role in his decision to resume soccer, citing his father’s encouragement and belief in his abilities as a source of inspiration.

Since joining El Paso Locomotive FC, Fernandez has integrated well with his teammates, who have treated him as one of their own rather than focusing on his celebrity status. He recounted an incident during training when a teammate accidentally struck him, and the camaraderie that followed underscored his acceptance within the group.

Reflecting on his role as Dani Rojas, Fernandez noted that the character was originally conceptualized as an Icelandic player but was adjusted to align with his own personality and background after his audition impressed the production team. He described Dani Rojas as being quite similar to himself in energy and demeanor.

Fernandez also stays connected with his “Ted Lasso” castmates through a group chat, where his decision to return to soccer was met with enthusiastic support and congratulations. He credited the show not just for advancing his acting career but also for its positive influence on his mental health and outlook on life, helping him embrace creativity and hope.

Looking ahead, Fernandez expressed excitement about the possibility of scoring a goal and hinted that his celebration might mimic the jubilant style of his “Ted Lasso” character, blending the lines between his real life and on-screen persona.

As he embarks on this renewed chapter, Cristo Fernandez exemplifies the intersection of passion and perseverance, bridging his past and present through a lifelong love of soccer.