Cristiano Ronaldo’s declaration, “I’m Saudi now,” marks a defining moment not only in his illustrious career but also in the global evolution of football. When he signed for Al Nassr in late 2022, many critics labeled the move as a desperate final chapter, a decision driven more by financial opportunity than sporting ambition. Ronaldo himself admitted the world saw it as a “crazy” step. Yet today, the Portuguese icon stands vindicated, with his gamble proving to be a masterstroke that reshaped his legacy, elevated Saudi football, and changed the dynamics of the global game.
Ronaldo’s arrival in Saudi Arabia instantly shifted the spotlight. Stadiums sold out overnight, global broadcasters scrambled for rights, and clubs across the Saudi Pro League saw a surge in worldwide attention. What was once a league watched mainly by regional fans suddenly became a global attraction. Within months, the signing that many mocked had inspired an unprecedented influx of elite players—Karim Benzema, Neymar, Sadio Mané, N’Golo Kanté, Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and more—each acknowledging that Ronaldo’s presence and ambition played a role in their decisions.
On the pitch, Ronaldo proved that his competitive fire had not dimmed. He scored goals at a relentless pace, broke records in the league and for Al Nassr, and maintained his status as one of the world’s most prolific forwards well into his late 30s. His performances silenced doubters who assumed he would treat the move like a retirement tour. Instead, he approached the Saudi Pro League with the same intensity he once brought to Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. His leadership helped elevate standards within his club and the league as a whole.
Off the field, Ronaldo’s influence was even more far-reaching. His presence accelerated Saudi Arabia’s long-term sports vision. Football academies, stadium projects, youth development programs, and commercial partnerships all received a boost from the attention he attracted. Merchandise sales exploded, tourism numbers rose, and the world began to speak about Saudi football in a new, more serious tone. Ronaldo became not just a player but a global ambassador of the nation’s sporting ambitions.
By declaring “I’m Saudi now,” Ronaldo signaled his deep connection with the country, the culture, and the fans who embraced him with immense passion. It reflects how fully he has integrated into the Saudi project—one he believes has transformed the sport and will continue to shape its future. His decision, once labeled foolish, is now widely recognized as visionary.
Today, historians of the sport will likely view Ronaldo’s move as one of the most influential transfers of the modern era. It expanded football’s global map, normalized high-profile moves outside traditional European leagues, and helped usher in a new era where football is truly global—not centered only in Europe.
Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t just adapt to Saudi Arabia; he became part of its football identity. His bold leap of faith reshaped a nation’s sporting landscape and added yet another powerful chapter to his legendary career.
