When he made the move to Al Nassr in Riyadh two years ago for a reported $250 million, it seemed like he was trading a glorious career for a quieter life in football. However, his impact quickly became evident as a wave of veteran stars, like Karim Benzema and the often-injured Neymar, followed him to the high-spending Saudi Pro League.
In December, Saudi Arabia scored the 2034 World Cup, marking a significant step in the kingdom's efforts to reshape its image through sports, tourism, and culture. Ronaldo has been at the forefront of this movement, serving as an ambassador for the Saudi World Cup and becoming a social media sensation with over a billion followers across his platforms.
When he kicked off his YouTube channel in August, he racked up a million subscribers in just 90 minutes and hit 20 million within a day. Currently, he boasts 73.5 million subscribers.
While his dazzling smile, chiseled physique, and brand endorsements are everywhere online, he’s just as lively on the field. He netted two goals for Al Nassr on Monday, including a classic leaping header, and he still passionately critiques both his and his teammates' errors as if he were in the heat of an El Clasico match with Real Madrid.
“However, the gusto and passion that he continues to display suggests a consummate professional, deeply passionate player, and a physically determined athlete, the likes of which we don’t commonly see,” he added.
Stay, go or retire
Even though World Cup success has likely slipped through his fingers, unlike his Argentine counterpart Lionel Messi, the five-time Ballon d'Or and Champions League champ still has records within reach.
Back in September, he hit the milestone of 900 professional goals, a remarkable achievement in official matches. Now sitting at 923, and having scored a record 35 goals in the Saudi Pro League last season, the magical 1,000 mark is getting closer.
However, despite his incredible performance, Ronaldo hasn't yet secured a Saudi or continental title with Al Nassr, with the Arab Club Champions Cup of 2023 being his only win with the team.
As his contract is set to expire in June, there are questions about his future, with no word on whether he’ll stick around in Saudi Arabia.
Whether he stays, leaves, or hangs up his boots, he has undeniably made a significant impact on football in the region while also boosting his own brand.
“Undoubtedly, his presence was key for the Saudi bid for the World Cup, especially with his constant positive talk about Saudi Arabia,” Egyptian TV football analyst Omar Nassef told AFP.
“Ronaldo’s presence opened the way for players at European elite clubs to come directly to the Saudi league.
“It’s not only about the amount of money, it’s also about going to play in a league that has one of the best players in the world.”