Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the world’s most renowned soccer stars, is facing suspension and a hefty fine after making an inappropriate gesture during a Saudi League game. The incident occurred after Ronaldo’s team, Al Nassr, secured a victory against Al-Shabab on Sunday.
Videos captured by fans show Ronaldo cupping his ear and then gesturing with his hand in a thrusting motion around his groin area. The gesture was seemingly in response to Al-Shabab fans chanting “Messi,” a reference to Ronaldo’s long-time rival Lionel Messi. The gesture caused quite a stir in Saudi Arabia, leading to an investigation by the SAFF’s Disciplinary and Ethics Committee.
In response to the incident, Ronaldo has been suspended for one match, which means he will not be able to participate in Al Nassr’s upcoming game against Al-Hazm. Additionally, he has been ordered to pay a fine of 20,000 Saudi Riyals ($5,333) to Al-Shabab, with half of that amount going to the Saudi Arabia Football Federation.
The decision handed down by the Disciplinary and Ethics Committee is not open to appeal, leaving Ronaldo no option but to accept the punishment. Despite the controversy, Ronaldo broke his silence on the incident, expressing his respect for all clubs and stating that the post-game celebration was a display of strength and victory. Ronaldo reiterated these sentiments when speaking with the committee during their investigation.
This is not the first time Ronaldo has found himself in hot water for inappropriate gestures during games. In April 2023, he made a similar obscene gesture towards opposing fans during a match against Al-Hilal. Earlier this year, Al-Hilal fans had also provoked Ronaldo by throwing a scarf at him, which he rubbed in his shorts before discarding it.
Ronaldo’s performance on the field this season has been exceptional, with an impressive tally of 34 goals in just 25 games for Al-Nassr. However, his actions off the field have once again landed him in trouble. While the suspension and fine may seem like a minor setback for the soccer star, it serves as a reminder that even the biggest names in the sport are not exempt from disciplinary action.
As fans eagerly await Ronaldo’s return to the field, it remains to be seen whether this incident will have any long-term consequences for his career. The incident serves as a reminder that athletes, no matter how talented or famous, must adhere to certain standards of conduct both on and off the field.
