Cristiano Ronaldo, overcome with emotion, celebrated his first Saudi Pro League title with Al Nassr. The Portuguese star, 41, could not hold back his tears after securing his team’s first championship in 11 years in a dramatic finale to the season. Ronaldo’s team defeated Damac 4-1, and he scored twice to ensure victory, leading to euphoric celebrations with the Al Nassr fans at Al-Awwal Park stadium.
Al Nassr's 11th Saudi Title
Al Nassr, led by coach Jorge Jesus, secured their 11th Saudi title after defeating Damac. The team went into the final match knowing they needed to win to fend off the challenge from Al-Hilal, who had not lost all season. Al Nassr delivered with style, winning their first league trophy since 2019.
The atmosphere in Riyadh was electric, with Sadio Mané and Kingsley Coman leading the home team to an early lead. Although Morlaye Sylla threatened to spoil the celebration with a goal from the penalty spot, Ronaldo secured victory with two goals, ensuring Al Nassr’s triumph.
Emotion and Joy
Ronaldo’s first goal came from a powerful and low free-kick from the left side into the bottom corner, his first goal from a set-piece since August 2024. It was his 27th league goal in a very productive season. Ten minutes before the end, he scored again, making it his fourth for Al Nassr.
After being greeted with cheers, Ronaldo broke down in tears on the bench. This victory represents a significant personal milestone for the Portuguese player, who has finished second and third twice since his January 2023 arrival in Saudi Arabia.
The tears turned to joy as Ronaldo led the celebrations with a drum from the stands. Al Nassr ended the season with a two-point advantage over Al-Hilal, who finished undefeated but could not match Jorge Jesus’s team.
This title is Ronaldo’s eighth league championship in his career, won in four different countries. By securing the Saudi Pro League, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner solidified his status as a legend in Riyadh, bringing his club back to the top of Saudi football.
Despite his two goals, Ronaldo did not win the Golden Boot, finishing the season with 28 league goals. Julian Quiñones of Al Qadsiah and Ivan Toney of Al Ahli were the top scorers with 33 and 32 goals, respectively.
This is the first trophy Ronaldo has won since joining Al Nassr in January 2023. He earns €200 million annually in Saudi Arabia and has scored 123 goals in 142 matches for the club, providing 24 assists. He had not won any of the friendly tournaments, like the UAFA Arab Club Champions Cup, prior to this victory.
fenerbahce were miles better this season tbh