Following Al Nassr’s 3-2 win against Al Shabab in a Saudi Pro League match, Cristiano Ronaldo has stirred controversy with what appears to be a provocative gesture. The Portuguese star, who scored a first-half penalty, was seen cupping his ear and making repeated thrusting motions near his pelvis in videos circulating on social media, seemingly directed at rival Al Shabab supporters.
Although the incident was not captured by television cameras, criticism of Ronaldo has been swift, prompting the Saudi football federation (SAFF) to launch an investigation, according to local media reports.
Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr in December 2022, leads the league with 22 goals this season. Despite his stellar performance, Al Nassr trails fellow big-spending rivals Al Hilal by four points, with a game in hand.
The club is also vying for success in the Asian Champions League, with a quarterfinal match against Al-Ain of the United Arab Emirates scheduled for next month.
Ronaldo’s on-field celebrations have been marred by taunts from opposing fans, particularly chants invoking his longtime rival Lionel Messi. Previous incidents include blowing kisses to the crowd and rubbing a scarf on his crotch before throwing it back towards the stands. It seems the teasing is beginning to take its toll on the football icon.
— @TrollFootball Videos (@TF_Video) February 25, 2024
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