Cristiano Ronaldo Faces Suspension and Fine for Offensive Gesture in Saudi Pro League Match

Al Nassr Captain Penalized by SAFF for Provocative Actions Towards Al Shabab Fans

Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Al Nassr, has been handed a one-match suspension and fined following an incident during a recent Saudi Pro League game against Al Shabab, where he made what was perceived as an offensive gesture towards opposing fans.

The incident occurred at the end of Al Nassr’s 3-2 victory over Al Shabab, when Ronaldo was seen on video responding to chants of “Messi” from the home crowd by cupping his ear and making repeated gestures towards his pelvic area. Although not captured by television cameras, videos of Ronaldo’s actions quickly circulated on social media platforms.

The Disciplinary and Ethics Committee of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation announced on Thursday that Ronaldo would serve a one-match ban, with Al Nassr’s next game scheduled for Thursday night against Al Hazem. Additionally, Ronaldo has been fined 20,000 SAR ($5,333) to cover the costs incurred by Al Shabab for filing the complaint, along with an additional 10,000 SAR to the federation. The committee stated that the decision is not subject to appeal.

Ronaldo reportedly defended his actions to the disciplinary committee, stating that the gesture was common in Europe and intended to convey victory. However, this is not the first time the Portuguese forward has faced criticism for his behavior in Saudi Arabia. Last April, he was accused of making an obscene gesture towards Al Hilal supporters after a match, and earlier this month, he reacted to having a Hilal scarf thrown at him by putting it inside his shorts and hurling it back at the stands.

See also  Eden Hazard to Depart Real Madrid After Injury-Plagued Stint

Despite the controversy, Ronaldo continues to lead the scoring charts in the Saudi Pro League, with 22 goals in 20 matches. He is expected to return to the Al Nassr lineup for Monday’s Asian Champions League quarter-final first leg match against Al Ain.

Similar Posts:

Leave a Reply