Ronaldo's Stellar Year in Saudi Arabia: A Goal-Scoring Triumph
In a stunning turn of events, Cristiano Ronaldo has not only conquered the Saudi Professional League but has outshone football giants Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappe to secure the prestigious Maradona Award for Best Goalscorer at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards 2023. This victory adds another feather to Ronaldo's illustrious cap, affirming his decision to join Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia nearly a year ago.
Ronaldo's Journey to the Top:
Leaving behind his legacy in European football, Cristiano Ronaldo made headlines when he became the first major player to join the Saudi Pro League in January. The move to Al Nassr was pivotal, triggering a domino effect that saw other high-profile players like Neymar, Karim Benzema, and N'Golo Kante follow suit during the summer transfer window.
Unparalleled Goal-Scoring Form:
Since he arrived in the Middle East, Ronaldo has displayed impeccable goal-scoring prowess. Boasting 54 goals in 59 matches throughout the year, this marks his best performance in a single calendar year since 2017. His contributions to Al Nassr, where he netted 34 goals in 34 Saudi Professional League matches, have earned him the Maradona Award, highlighting his exceptional abilities in front of goal.
Awards Galore:
Ronaldo is set to sweep multiple accolades at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards 2023, including Best Men's Player, Best Middle East Player, and Fans' Favourite Player. Voted by fans worldwide and Globe Soccer's Official Jury, featuring football luminaries like Iker Casillas and Luis Figo, these awards recognize Ronaldo's impact beyond the pitch.
Impact on Saudi Football:
Ronaldo's move to Saudi Arabia not only redefined his career but also transformed the landscape of the Saudi Pro League. A trailblazer in every sense, the 38-year-old football maestro has not only excelled on the field, with 41 goals in 48 appearances but has also paved the way for other international stars to embrace the competitive Saudi league.
Looking Ahead:
As Ronaldo celebrates his first anniversary in Saudi football, he remains committed to the league and has firmly closed the door on returning to European football. In a recent interview, he expressed his belief that the Saudi league surpasses others in quality, notably emphasizing the Premier League as the only competition comparable in standard.
Retirement Plans:
While Ronaldo's retirement looms on the horizon, he has hinted at playing beyond 2026, eyeing a potential 250th cap for Portugal. Ronaldo's influence on the international stage remains unparalleled with 205 caps and 128 goals already to his name.
Conclusion:
Cristiano Ronaldo's journey to the top in Saudi Arabia has been spectacular. Beyond the awards and accolades, his impact on Saudi football and the global perception of the league is immeasurable. As he continues to defy age and expectations, Ronaldo's legacy grows, leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful game. The Riyadh Super Cup clash against Lionel Messi in 2024 is poised to be an epic encounter, marking a historic chapter in the careers of two football icons.