Ronaldo was taking part in the festivities of the Saudi Foundation Day, which marks the anniversary of the country’s founding in 1727 by Imam Mohammed Bin Saud. The event is celebrated with a four-day weekend and various activities across the kingdom. Ronaldo also posted a picture of himself in the thobe on his Twitter account, with the caption: “Happy founding day to Saudi Arabia. Was a special experience to participate in the celebration at Al-Nassr FC!”
Ronaldo makes a smooth transition to Al-Nassr FC
Ronaldo, who is widely regarded as one of the best players of all time, shocked the world when he announced his move to Al-Nassr FC from Juventus, the Italian giants, in January 2023. The transfer was reportedly worth $120 million, making Ronaldo the highest-paid player in the world. Ronaldo said he was looking for a new challenge and wanted to help Al-Nassr FC achieve their goals and ambitions.
Since his arrival, Ronaldo has been in sensational form, scoring 15 goals and providing 10 assists in 18 games for Al-Nassr FC. He has helped the club win the Saudi Pro League title, the King’s Cup, and the Arab Club Champions Cup. He has also formed a formidable partnership with his former Real Madrid teammate, Karim Benzema, who also joined Al-Nassr FC in the same transfer window.
Ronaldo has also won the hearts of the Saudi fans, who have welcomed him with open arms and given him the nickname “CR7 Al-Nassr”. Ronaldo has expressed his gratitude and admiration for the Saudi people and their hospitality. He has also participated in various social and charitable events, such as visiting children’s hospitals, donating blood, and supporting environmental causes.
Ronaldo faces a friendly rivalry with Messi in Saudi Arabia
Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr FC has also reignited his long-standing rivalry with Lionel Messi, the Argentine superstar who plays for Al-Hilal FC, another Saudi Arabian top division club. Messi, who is considered by many as the greatest player of all time, joined Al-Hilal FC from Barcelona, the Spanish giants, in July 2022. The transfer was reportedly worth $100 million, making Messi the second highest-paid player in the world.
Messi and Ronaldo have been competing for the title of the best player in the world for over a decade, breaking numerous records and winning countless trophies and individual awards. They have also faced each other in several memorable matches, most notably in the El Clasico, the fierce rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Their fans and followers have often debated and argued over who is the better player and who deserves more recognition and respect.
In Saudi Arabia, Messi and Ronaldo have continued their friendly competition, both on and off the pitch. They have met twice in the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Nassr FC winning 3-2 in the first match and Al-Hilal FC winning 4-3 in the second match. Ronaldo scored twice in both games, while Messi scored once in the first game and twice in the second game. They have also exchanged compliments and praises for each other, as well as jokes and banter.
