Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, football icon Cristiano Ronaldo declared the Saudi Pro League to be more competitive than France’s Ligue 1.
“The Saudi championship isn’t worse than the French championship. I think it’s more competitive,” said Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or recipient.
Ronaldo made a landmark move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia last January, becoming the first high-profile player. This trend was followed by other stars like France’s Karim Benzema, Brazil’s Neymar, and Senegal’s Sadio Mane, all drawn to the Gulf kingdom for lucrative contracts.
Ronaldo stated in his experience in the Saudi Pro League, “I have played there for a year, so I know what I’m talking about. We are now better than the French championship and continue to improve.”
In 2023, Ronaldo, 38, emerged as the world’s top male goalscorer, netting 54 goals for Al Nassr and Portugal. “I was the best goalscorer this season, beating young talents like [Erling] Haaland. And I’ll be 39 soon!” he remarked.
Ronaldo, known for his stints at Real Madrid and Juventus, embraces the challenges and criticism. “I like when people doubt me and then I’m successful.”
Regarding his future and potential retirement, Ronaldo humorously noted, “Of course it will be soon. By soon, I mean 10 years more. I’m joking! I don’t know, let’s see.”
