Ronaldo: The Saudi Pro League’s Challenge is No Walk in the Park, and Heart Matters Still Rule
6 November 2025
Ronaldo opens up about Diogo Jota tragedy and the Saudi league
Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al Nassr, shared one of the most painful moments of his life—the death of his Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota, which moved him to tears when he learned the news.
In a conversation with British broadcaster Piers Morgan, Ronaldo also touched on the competitiveness of the Saudi Pro League and argued it should be considered in the Ballon d'Or criteria.
The funeral debate and keeping perspective
Ronaldo explained that he has long avoided attending funerals, saying doing so could turn the moment into a circus; he noted his conscience is clear and he does not mind what others say.
He recalled being with Jota during a recent international break and training together; he said he cried a lot and was deeply saddened by the tragedy.
He added that for Jota's family and friends it was devastating, and he insisted that he refused to attend the funeral to avoid spotlight and cameras shifting to him.
He emphasized that some people want to sit in the front row to witness his arrival, but he always puts Jota's family first and does not need cameras to prove anything.
Fame, league strength, and the road ahead
Ronaldo defended the Saudi Pro League, saying there is no reason to belittle it and that it is stronger than the Portuguese league, and noting that the French league is dominated by PSG.
He warned against the notion that scoring here is easier and claimed that his career across many leagues proves the league's quality; if he played in the Premier League at the same age, he would aim for the same goal tally.
He declared himself the most famous person on earth, insisting fame can be dull and that his aim was success, not fame for fame's sake. He also discussed Wayne Rooney's views on Messi and argued that he believes he is better, while respecting others' choices.
He spoke about his relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson and the club's CEO Simido, praising their influence and loyalty within the sport. He also teased a personal gesture toward a long-forgotten benefactor, a burger seller who fed him for free when he was a child, promising to repay her soon.
