Portuguese superstar to continue his journey in Saudi Arabia.
RIYADH: Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has agreed to extend his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr until June 2026, a club official confirmed to AFP on Monday. While the deal has not yet been formally signed, an official announcement is expected in the coming days.
Ronaldo, who celebrated his 40th birthday last week, joined Al Nassr in January 2023 and has since made a significant impact, scoring 82 goals in 90 matches. His current contract was set to expire in June 2025, but the new agreement will see him remain with the Riyadh-based club for at least another year.
A Legacy in the Making
In August 2023, Ronaldo hinted at his long-term commitment to Al Nassr, stating: “I will stay with Al Nassr until the end of my career, which may be soon or in two or three years. But it’ll most likely happen with Al Nassr, in the team that makes me happy and where I feel good.”
Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia in 2023, reportedly worth $250 million, initially raised eyebrows, but it paved the way for other global stars to join the Saudi Pro League. His influence has been instrumental in elevating the league’s profile, culminating in Saudi Arabia being awarded the 2034 FIFA World Cup in December 2023.
Records and Achievements
Despite his age, Ronaldo continues to defy expectations, closing in on the remarkable milestone of 1,000 professional goals in official matches. However, his time at Al Nassr has seen limited team success, with the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup being his only major trophy with the club so far.
Off the pitch, Ronaldo’s global appeal remains unmatched. When he launched his YouTube channel in August 2023, he gained 1 million subscribers in just 90 minutes and 20 million within 24 hours, showcasing his enduring popularity.
A Lasting Impact
Ronaldo’s decision to extend his stay in Saudi Arabia underscores his commitment to the club and the league’s growing ambitions. As he continues to chase records and trophies, his presence in the Saudi Pro League remains a cornerstone of the kingdom’s broader strategy to transform its global image through sports, tourism, and culture.
An official announcement regarding Ronaldo’s contract extension is expected soon.