Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent declaration, “I belong to Saudi Arabia,” has sparked significant attention in the sports world. Following his new contract with Al Nassr, the Portuguese star has become increasingly vocal about his commitment to the Saudi Pro League and his vision for the 2034 World Cup. This article delves into Ronaldo’s statements, the implications for Saudi football, and the broader context of Saudi Arabia’s sporting ambitions.
Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in January 2023 marked a turning point for the Saudi Pro League, attracting global attention and investment. His comments reflect a deeper integration and belief in the country’s sporting future. With the 2034 World Cup on the horizon, Ronaldo’s endorsement carries considerable weight, influencing perceptions and potentially attracting further talent and investment into the region.
This article will explore Ronaldo’s motivations, the criticisms surrounding Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, and the country’s Vision 2030 plan. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the situation, balancing the excitement of sporting development with the underlying socio-political factors.
Ronaldo’s Commitment to Saudi Arabia
Cristiano Ronaldo’s statement, “I belong to Saudi Arabia,” underscores his deep commitment to the country and its sporting ambitions. Speaking after signing a new two-year contract with Al Nassr, Ronaldo emphasized his belief in the Saudi Pro League’s potential and the transformative impact of the 2034 World Cup. His words carry significant weight, given his global influence and status as one of football’s greatest players.
“Of course, we (the Saudi Pro League) are still improving. I believe that in this moment that we are top five (leagues in the world) already. I still believe that we will continue to improve, and we have time,” Ronaldo stated. His conviction in the league’s growth is evident, dismissing critics who have not experienced playing in Saudi Arabia. “Only the people who have never played in Saudi Arabia and know nothing about football say this league is not top five (in the world).”
Ronaldo’s decision to extend his stay in Saudi Arabia is rooted in his belief in the country’s project. “Not just the next two years but until 2034, which is when the World Cup will be held in Saudi Arabia. I believe that will be the most beautiful World Cup ever.” His vision extends beyond playing football, aiming to contribute to the country’s cultural shift and growth.
The Growth of the Saudi Pro League
The Saudi Pro League has experienced substantial growth in recent years, fueled by significant investments and the arrival of high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo. This influx of talent has not only elevated the league’s profile but also enhanced its competitiveness and appeal to global audiences. Ronaldo’s presence, in particular, has acted as a catalyst, drawing attention and investment to Saudi football.
Ronaldo’s assertion that the Saudi Pro League is already among the top five leagues in the world is ambitious but reflects the rapid progress and potential he sees. “We have shown in the last two years that the league is going up all the time. I am happy because I know that the league is very competitive,” he noted. This competitiveness is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent, further driving the league’s development.
The league’s growth is also supported by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and improve the country’s international image. Investing in sports, particularly football, is a key component of this strategy, with the goal of creating a vibrant and sustainable sporting ecosystem.
Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup Ambitions
Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup is a central element of its Vision 2030, aiming to showcase the country’s transformation and sporting infrastructure on a global stage. Ronaldo’s endorsement of the 2034 World Cup as “the most beautiful World Cup ever” highlights the country’s ambition and commitment to delivering a memorable tournament.
The decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia has faced scrutiny due to concerns about human rights, treatment of migrant workers, and other ethical issues. Critics argue that Saudi Arabia’s sporting investments are a form of sportswashing, aimed at diverting attention from these issues. However, the Saudi government maintains that its sporting expansion is intended to create investment opportunities, improve public health, and develop sporting infrastructure.
In its evaluation report, FIFA graded Saudi’s bid as the strongest to have ever been made by a potential World Cup host. To the fury of campaigners, they only graded the country’s human rights as a medium risk. These concerns have been echoed by human rights organizations, emphasizing the need for continued scrutiny and accountability.
Vision 2030 and Sporting Expansion
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is a comprehensive plan to diversify the country’s economy, improve its international image, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens. Sport has become a key pillar of this vision, with substantial investments in football and other sports aimed at achieving these goals. The 2034 World Cup is seen as a crowning glory of this strategy, providing a platform to showcase Saudi Arabia’s progress and potential.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is driving this transformation, seeking to modernize the country and attract foreign investment. The sporting expansion is intended to offset the country’s poor human-rights reputation and to appease its rapidly growing and young population. The majority of Saudi’s geopolitical activity can and should be viewed through this prism.
Yasser Al Misehal, the president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, aims to increase the number of registered male players there from 21,000 to more than 200,000. This investment in grassroots football is intended to create a sustainable sporting culture and develop local talent.
Criticisms and Concerns
Despite the excitement surrounding Saudi Arabia’s sporting ambitions, significant criticisms and concerns remain. Issues such as the treatment of migrant workers, women, and the LGBTQ+ community have raised ethical questions about the country’s suitability as a host for major sporting events. The murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi has further intensified scrutiny of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International’s head of labour rights and sport, called FIFA’s report an “astonishing whitewash of the country’s atrocious human rights record”. These concerns highlight the ongoing need for transparency and accountability in Saudi Arabia’s sporting endeavors.
Other issues noted include sustainability, the weather and the supporter experience. Balancing the economic benefits of hosting major sporting events with these ethical considerations is a complex challenge for Saudi Arabia.
Future Investments and Involvement
Ronaldo was asked if he would consider investing into Saudi sport one day, Ronaldo says becoming a coach is not in his plans but that “projects and be part of the growth of the country, to be on the side of the country for sure, I will be next to the country because I’m not coming only to play football, I play for the change of the country’s culture. I’m a part of that process.
As I say so many times I belong to Saudi Arabia, I’m Portuguese but I belong to Saudi Arabia.”
Cristiano’s remarks highlight his willingness to contribute to the country’s growth beyond his playing career, he sees himself as part of the country’s future.
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo’s declaration of belonging to Saudi Arabia reflects a significant shift in the country’s sporting landscape. His commitment to the Saudi Pro League and his vision for the 2034 World Cup underscore the country’s ambition to become a major player in global sports. While criticisms and concerns persist, Ronaldo’s endorsement carries considerable weight, influencing perceptions and potentially attracting further talent and investment.
The growth of the Saudi Pro League and the pursuit of the 2034 World Cup are integral to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy and improving the country’s international image. Balancing these ambitions with ethical considerations and human rights concerns remains a complex challenge.
Ultimately, the success of Saudi Arabia’s sporting endeavors will depend on its ability to address these criticisms and create a sustainable and inclusive sporting environment. Ronaldo’s role in this transformation will be closely watched, as he continues to shape the future of football in Saudi Arabia.
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