Cristiano Ronaldo, during his appearance at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, reiterated his belief that the Saudi Pro League (SPL) is stronger than Ligue 1, further asserting that the SPL’s rise to prominence will make it one of the world’s top football leagues.
Ronaldo, 38, has consistently championed the SPL’s quality since his high-profile move to Al Nassr in 2023. At the awards ceremony, the Portuguese forward was outspoken about his views on the competitiveness of the Saudi league compared to France’s Ligue 1.
He emphasized that his assessment was not influenced by personal interests, noting the league’s growing strength and potential.
“The SPL is better than Ligue 1, of course. I’m not saying that because I play here. I don’t care what people think about it,” Ronaldo said. “Players should come here and they will see quickly. Just try to do sprints at 38, 39, 40 degrees… Come and you will see.”
He was referring to the harsh, challenging conditions players face in Saudi Arabia, where extreme heat can impact performance and fitness levels.
Ronaldo’s statement also critiqued the financial dominance of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in Ligue 1, which he argues diminishes the league’s overall competitiveness.
“In France, they only have PSG, everyone else is finished. Nobody can beat them because they have the most money and the best players,” Ronaldo remarked, underscoring the disparity in competition that he believes renders Ligue 1 less engaging.
He believes the SPL offers a more dynamic and competitive football environment, where clubs are more evenly matched.
This claim has been backed by the growing influx of star players to the Saudi league, including other high-profile names who have joined in recent months, attracted by the country’s increasing investment in football.
Ronaldo also expressed confidence in the future of the SPL, predicting that the league will eventually become one of the top three in the world.
“The SPL is growing and of course, it will take some time. Step by step it will reach the highest level. I am sure it will become one of the three best leagues in the world,” he stated.
His optimism reflects the ongoing development and investment in Saudi football, particularly through the signing of global stars and improvements to league infrastructure.
As the first major international superstar to make the move to Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has played a key role in bringing attention to the SPL, with his presence helping to elevate the league’s profile on the global stage.
His influence has not only drawn attention from fans but also contributed to the signing of additional elite players, which in turn increases the league’s credibility and competitiveness.
The expansion of the SPL is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader plan to enhance its global sports profile, including investments in infrastructure and efforts to host major sporting events.
Ronaldo’s comments reflect the broader ambition of the country to position its football league as a top contender on the world stage, despite the challenges it may face in the coming years.
As more global stars consider the SPL as a destination in the latter stages of their careers, the league is likely to continue evolving, creating an increasingly competitive environment that challenges established European football powers.