Ronaldo says Saudi Arabia feels like home, calls his move a “good kind of crazy”
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Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has reflected on his journey in Saudi Arabia, saying that those who once called him “crazy” for moving there now see he was right all along.
Speaking at the TOURISM Global Summit 2025 in Riyadh, the Al Nassr captain said his decision to join the Saudi Pro League in 2022 was driven by belief in the country’s vision and future. “I knew from the beginning it was a good kind of crazy,” Ronaldo said with a smile.
“I feel like a Saudi now,” he added, praising the nation’s safety, peace, and ambition. Ronaldo also expressed admiration for projects such as AlUla and the Red Sea development, saying he hopes to contribute beyond football as Saudi Arabia transforms into a global destination.
“Saudi Arabia is a wonderful country to live in because of its peace and safety,” he said. “My family supports my decisions, and we are very happy here. People in Saudi Arabia treat us wonderfully, and we want to stay and build our lives here.”
Since joining Al Nassr on a free transfer after leaving Manchester United, Ronaldo has scored 99 goals in all competitions. He renewed his contract until 2027, extending his career beyond his 42nd birthday and signaling his intent to remain in Saudi Arabia long-term.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said the Saudi Pro League is now among the top five football leagues in the world and predicted that the 2034 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted by Saudi Arabia, “will be the best in history.”
