41-year-old ends long wait for domestic silverware with 4-1 victory over Damac.
Image BBC
Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to help Al Nassr clinch the Saudi Pro League title with a 4-1 win over Damac on Thursday, ending his long wait for a domestic trophy. His free-kick and close-range finish came in the final 30 minutes, securing the victory as Al Hilal finished two points behind.
Ronaldo, 41, had not won a major club trophy since Juventus claimed Serie A in 2020. He wept on the bench as the final moments unfolded, adding the Saudi championship to his collection of English, Spanish, Italian titles, and five Champions League medals.
Al Nassr led 2-0 but briefly fell to 2-1 before Ronaldo’s free-kick in the 63rd minute found the far corner. He struck again nine minutes from time, smashing a cut-back into the net.
Ronaldo’s Saudi adventure began in January 2023, opening the door for stars like Neymar and Karim Benzema. His arrival aimed to elevate the Saudi Pro League’s global profile, coinciding with Saudi Arabia’s broader push into sports and tourism.
Despite early challenges—including a King’s Cup final loss in 2024 and temporary protests over transfers—Ronaldo has been a top scorer and ambassador. His career tally now stands at 973 goals, just shy of the 1,000-goal milestone. He will next aim for a sixth World Cup with Portugal.
