The story of Cristiano Ronaldo is one that continues to fascinate the world of football even as the legendary forward approaches his 40s. After Al-Nassr’s narrow but crucial 2–1 victory over Al-Ittihad in the semifinal of the Saudi Super Cup, head coach Jorge Jesus took the opportunity to underline not only Ronaldo’s importance for his team, but also for the sport as a whole. In a heartfelt statement, Jesus hailed the Portuguese icon as the embodiment of professionalism, resilience, and inspiration, emphasizing that few athletes in history have managed to remain so influential at such an advanced stage of their careers.
“Ronaldo is an excellent example for world football. He is 40 years old, and yet he demonstrates extraordinary physical condition,” Jesus said, speaking to O Jogo. His words capture a truth that football fans worldwide acknowledge: Ronaldo has refused to let age dictate the end of his career. Instead, he continues to perform at a level that defies expectations, scoring goals, assisting teammates, and maintaining his reputation as one of the most dedicated professionals in the sport.
Beyond the goals and statistics, what impresses coaches and analysts most is Ronaldo’s relentless work ethic. Even at a stage when most players have retired or taken a step back, he still treats training sessions with the same seriousness as finals, constantly refining his physical preparation and tactical awareness. According to Jesus, this mentality is not just rare, it is unique and inspirational for younger generations of players.Another point highlighted by Jorge Jesus is Ronaldo’s irreplaceable status as a magnet for fans and attention. “Let us not forget that 80% of the fans in the stadium came here because of Ronaldo. Al-Nassr deserves to have such a global superstar in its squad,” he said.
Indeed, Ronaldo’s transfer to Al-Nassr in January 2023 was not just a turning point for the Saudi club, but also a defining moment in the broader development of football in the Middle East. His arrival accelerated the league’s international visibility, attracted new sponsors, and boosted television audiences across continents.
The scenes at stadiums tell the story: children wearing Ronaldo’s No. 7 jersey, fans waving Portuguese flags, and a surge of ticket sales whenever he is on the pitch. Even rival clubs acknowledge that matches involving Al-Nassr immediately gain prestige and higher commercial value.Since joining Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s performances have been nothing short of remarkable. In 106 official matches, he has scored 93 goals and provided 20 assists, statistics that would be impressive for any forward, let alone one who has already celebrated his 40th birthday.
This production highlights his adaptability. While in Europe his game was often associated with blistering pace and powerful dribbles, in Saudi Arabia he has evolved into a more complete forward — still clinical inside the box, but also adept at linking play, mentoring younger teammates, and drawing defenders out of position. His current contract with Al-Nassr runs until the summer of 2027, meaning fans can expect several more years of his influence on and off the pitch. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value stands at €12 million — a figure that, while symbolic compared to his peak valuation, underlines his continued relevance as both a footballer and a commercial force.
For Jorge Jesus, however, Ronaldo’s importance goes beyond numbers. He represents discipline, dedication, and longevity — values that inspire both current professionals and aspiring footballers. “When you watch Ronaldo prepare, you understand why he is still at this level. He is not just a player; he is a model for how to live as a professional athlete,” the coach has often remarked.
Indeed, the Portuguese forward is known for his strict diet, recovery routines, and gym work, which are widely studied by sports scientists and nutritionists. His ability to adapt his playing style with age while maintaining a peak physical condition is regarded as one of the greatest case studies in modern sports science.The broader significance of Ronaldo’s presence in Saudi Arabia cannot be overlooked. His move signaled the Saudi Pro League’s ambition to compete with Europe’s top divisions in terms of quality and visibility. With his global fame, Ronaldo has acted as a bridge, encouraging other elite players to consider similar moves.
