Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Two years after his groundbreaking move to Al Nassr in the Roshn Saudi League (RSL), Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo continues to shape the league's trajectory, both on and off the pitch.

His transfer in December 2022 marked a pivotal moment in modern football, inspiring a wave of global talent to join the RSL and elevating its status on the international stage.

Ronaldo’s arrival was the catalyst for the RSL’s Transformation Strategy launched in 2023, which has propelled the league to global prominence.

Now broadcast in 160 countries and boasting a 205% surge in social media following, the league has drawn football superstars like Neymar, who hailed Ronaldo as a “trailblazer.”

Reflecting on his journey, Ronaldo shared his contentment with life in Saudi Arabia.

“I’m happy, and my family is happy. Life is good, football is good,” he told the SPL in an exclusive interview.

Despite his remarkable achievements, including a record-breaking 35 goals in 31 matches and winning the 2023-24 RSL golden boot, Ronaldo remains hungry for success.

“I want more. I believe this year will be a good year for Al Nassr, inshallah,” he said.

Al Nassr fell short of the league title last season, finishing behind Al Hilal. This year, Jeddah’s Al Ittihad leads the pack, captained by Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema.

Ronaldo acknowledged the competitive nature of the league but emphasized his determination to guide Al Nassr to glory.

“It’s hard to compete with teams like Al Hilal and Al Ittihad, but we are still pushing and fighting. The AFC Champions League is something I want to win for the club,” Ronaldo added.

Ronaldo’s impact extends far beyond football. With over one billion social media followers, he uses his platform to inspire future generations. His presence has been instrumental in attracting global stars to the RSL, enhancing its profile and competitiveness.

“For me, it is an honour that the league is growing. I want the league to improve not only for Saudi players but to compete with other leagues globally,” he said.

Among his many highlights, Ronaldo cherishes Al Nassr’s 2023 King Salman Arab Clubs Cup victory over Al Hilal, where he scored both goals in the 2-1 win.

“Winning my first trophy here was amazing. But I want more, and I will continue to push for Al Nassr to win titles,” he said.