Furor Erupts Over Ronaldo’s Apparent Obscene Taunt In Saudi League Match
Feb 27, 2024, 8:02 PM | Updated: 8:05 pm
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA - FEBRUARY 21: Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr reacts during the second leg of the AFC Champions Leauge Round of 16 match between Al Nassr and Al Fayha at Al Awwal Park on February 21, 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
(Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly being investigated for making an alleged offensive gesture while playing for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
Footage on social media appeared to show Ronaldo cupping his ear and repeatedly thrusting his hand forward near his pelvis, seemingly aimed at rival Al Shabab supporters. The incident occurred on Sunday after Al Nassr beat Al Shabab 3-2.
In the background were chants of “Messi.” Lionel Messi is Ronaldo’s longstanding soccer rival.
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Soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is to be investigated for a gesture he made towards fans while playing for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, according to Saudi-owned media.
👉 https://t.co/Tfn0yuL4ED pic.twitter.com/d66quJvD0q
— CNN Football (@CNNFC) February 27, 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo Investigation
While the incident was not captured by television cameras, criticism of the 39-year-old Portugal striker has been swift. Local media reports say the Saudi Arabia Football Federation has opened an investigation.
He could face a suspension. Al Nassr’s next match is on Thursday.
Ronaldo, who moved to the Riyadh-based club in December 2022, has a league-leading 22 goals. He scored the opener against Al Shabab, a first-half penalty.
Al Nassr trails fellow league leader Al Hilal by four points, having played a game more.
Al Nassr is also in the quarterfinals of the Asian Champions League, a tournament it has never won.
