Haaland Challenged Him, the English Football Icon Didn't Hesitate. Rooney Got in a Boat and Fulfilled a Crazy Promise

Originally, he had promised to row on the River Mersey in Liverpool. However, he ultimately swapped it for a different body of water, ESPN reported.

Rooney's action was a response to the popular "Viking Row" celebration used by Norwegian footballers and fans. After Norway's victory over Brazil, to which he contributed two goals, Haaland challenged the former striker to keep his promise. The former England captain then joined ex-internationals Joe Hart and Micah Richards, and together they set off on the Hudson River.

"Erling, as I promised, here we are, rowing on the Hudson River," Rooney stated to the BBC before embarking. During the journey, he joked: "I feel like I've pulled a hamstring!"

Hart, in turn, added: "We should race the Norwegian team."

Rooney later explained that it was a gesture of respect towards the Norwegian fans. "I enjoyed it. The fans were fantastic. We did it out of respect for them," he said.

Finally, he sent a message to Haaland: "I hope you enjoyed it. I saw the video of you dancing in Marbella... enjoy it."

Norway ultimately gave England a tough challenge in the World Cup quarter-finals, losing 2-1 after extra time due to a winning goal from Jude Bellingham.