Published on 01.03.2024
Cristiano Ronaldo, the forward for Al-Nassr, has received a one-match ban for “inciting fans” after their victory over Al-Shabab in the Saudi Pro League.
Following Sunday’s 3-2 loss in Riyadh, supporters of Al Shabab chanted “Messi,” referring to Ronaldo’s long-standing rival Lionel Messi. In response, the 39-year-old Portuguese captain cupped his hand to his ear and made a gesture towards the fans. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) has also fined Ronaldo 30,000 Saudi Riyals (£6,300).
Cristiano Ronaldo in the stands for the Al Nassr vs. Al Hazem match as he serves a one-match suspension after appearing to make an obscene gesture following Al Nassr's 3-2 win over Al Shabab. pic.twitter.com/FBPWqb1wKf
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) February 29, 2024
The SAFF disciplinary and ethics committee stated that Ronaldo is not allowed to appeal this decision. Despite opening the scoring from a penalty kick, Ronaldo’s team was twice caught up by Al-Shabab before Talisca scored an 87th-minute winner.
In December 2022, Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr on a free transfer from Manchester United and reportedly earned the highest salary in football history. Throughout this season’s 22 league games with Al-Nassr so far, he has netted an impressive tally of 20 goals. Currently positioned second on the table behind Al-Hilal is where his team stands.
