Cristiano Ronaldo: They said I was crazy to move to Saudi Arabia, now everyone knows I was right

Dubai: Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has said that when he first decided to move to Saudi Arabia, many thought he was “crazy”, but time has proved otherwise.

Speaking at the TOURISE Global Summit 2025 in Riyad, the Al Nassr captain said he knew from the start that his “crazy” decision was “a good kind of crazy” because he believed in the country’s vision and potential.

“I feel like a Saudi now,” Ronaldo told the audience, adding that he has been keen to contribute across different sectors beyond football. “Everyone now realises I was right.”

He expressed his admiration for AlUla and Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea project, saying he hopes to be part of the Kingdom’s ambitious transformation. “Saudi Arabia is a wonderful country to live in because of its peace and safety,” he added.

Ronaldo joined Al Nassr on a free transfer in 2022 after leaving Manchester United, scoring 99 goals in all competitions since. In June, he renewed his contract until 2027 — beyond his 42nd birthday — stating that he plans to live in Saudi Arabia for the rest of his life.

“My family supports my decisions, and we are very happy here,” he said, adding: “People in Saudi Arabia treat us wonderfully, and we want to stay and build our lives here.”

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner reaffirmed his ambition to win major titles with Al Nassr, adding that the Saudi Pro League is now among the world’s top five competitions. “The 2034 World Cup,” he said confidently, “will be the best in history.”