Investigation Launched Into Cristiano Ronaldo’s Alleged Obscene Gesture During Match with Al-Nassr
Saudi Arabian soccer officials have initiated an investigation into Cristiano Ronaldo following allegations of an obscene hand gesture directed towards fans during a match with Al-Nassr, the Saudi club for which he currently plays, as reported by Saudi media outlet Asharq Al Awsat.
Key Details:
The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has commenced the investigation through its disciplinary committee, aiming to release a decision within the next two days, according to sources familiar with the matter cited by Asharq Al Awsat.
Ronaldo, a renowned soccer star who joined Al-Nassr in a high-profile deal last year, faces scrutiny for his actions at the conclusion of Al-Nassr’s 3-2 victory over Saudi club Al-Shabab. This game marked Ronaldo’s 22nd goal of the season.
During the match, Ronaldo reportedly reacted to fans chanting the name of his long-time rival, Lionel Messi, with videos capturing him holding his hand to his ear before making a gesture towards his groin.
The soccer star could potentially face a two-game suspension, as reported by Asharq Al Awsat.
Forbes Valuation:
Ronaldo topped Forbes’ 2023 list of highest-paid athletes, earning $46 million on the field and $90 million through off-field endorsements. This placed him marginally above his long-standing rival Messi and Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe in terms of combined earnings.
Key Background:
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, is widely recognized as one of the greatest soccer players of his generation, having achieved numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career.
He has played for esteemed clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, accumulating over $1 billion in career earnings.
Ronaldo’s departure from Manchester United to Al-Nassr came after reported disputes with club management, including criticisms directed towards team manager Erik ten Hag and the Glazer family, who owned the club at the time.
His contract with Al-Nassr reportedly amounts to $210 million over two-and-a-half years, solidifying his status as one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.