It appears Cristiano Ronaldo is in the headlines again, but not for good reasons. The Portuguese forward is under criticism from the League and Saudi fans for what looked to be an offensive gesture made to the supporters during Al Nassr’s 3-2 victory against Al Shadab last night.
Ronaldo, the Saudi Pro League’s leading scorer, opened the scoring for his team with a penalty in the 21st minute. With the help of Brazilian Talisca’s brace, Al Nassr clinched a thrilling victory.
Following the game, the Al Shadab fans roared with chants of “Messi, Messi” directed at Ronaldo. The Portuguese player responded by covering his ear and rapidly pumping his palm in front of his pelvic area in the direction of the opposition fans.
Cristiano Ronaldo in Front of Al Shabab fans Who are Chanting "Messi, Messi" 🤦
Tears man he's so Insecure 😭😭😭pic.twitter.com/zNbDMJ1NQ4
— ACE (fan) (@FCB_ACEE) February 25, 2024
Although the incident wasn’t broadcast on television, a few spectators who were in the stands recorded it and shared it on social media.
The Saudi Pro League has not yet issued a statement, but the Saudi Arabia Football Federation (SAFF) has begun an inquiry, according to the Saudi daily Asharq al-Awsat.
Ronaldo has faced backlash for his celebrations on previous occasions. A similar incident happened in April of last year when the Portuguese attacker seemed to grab his genitals as he was making his way to the dugout during an Al Hilal match in the Saudi Pro League which Al Nassr lost 2-0.