Cristiano Ronaldo is at the centre of controversy once again after making a gesture towards opposition fans during Al-Nassr's 3-2 win over Al-Shabab on Sunday. The 39-year-old forward, who is the Saudi Pro League's top scorer, appeared to react to chants of 'Messi, Messi' by putting one hand to his ear and the other towards his pelvic area, moving it back and forth. This is the third time in less than a year that Ronaldo has been involved in a similar incident.
In April 2023, after Al-Nassr lost to Al-Hilal, Ronaldo grabbed his crotch as he left the field. His club denied it was a reaction to fans chanting Messi's name, claiming it was due to a groin injury. In February 2024, during a friendly against Al-Hilal, he was seen putting a scarf thrown at his feet into his shorts and then hurling it away. The latest incident has drawn widespread criticism and calls for punishment.
Saudi writer Waleed al-Farraj said on social media: 'The disciplinary committee is facing the biggest test. We will wait and see. Everything has its limits, no matter how famous you are. This is how the major leagues are.' The Saudi Arabian Football Federation is investigating, and former disciplinary committee head Ayman al-Rifai expects a suspension of two games and a fine.
Ronaldo is not just a player but an ambassador for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 project, which aims to diversify the economy through sports. He is the most popular figure on Instagram and has helped attract other stars to the league. The incident could have a major impact on the title race, with Al-Nassr now four points behind leaders Al-Hilal with 10 games remaining.
