Cristiano Ronaldo, soccer superstar, attended a dinner at the White House on Tuesday, where US President Donald Trump honored Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The athlete was seated near the front of the East Room, where Trump made a point to recognize Ronaldo for introducing him to his teenage son, Barron.
Ronaldo has been a key face for the Saudi soccer league since joining Al Nassr in 2022 on a reported $200 million-a-year contract. He signed a two-year extension with the club earlier this year. Trump expressed gratitude towards Ronaldo for attending and shared that his youngest son was impressed by meeting the athlete.
Ronaldo’s visit to the US is rare, with his last appearance being in 2014. However, he will be playing at a record sixth edition of the World Cup next year. He has been involved in some controversies in the past, including a reported $375,000 payment for a hush money settlement related to an alleged rape incident.
Despite this, Ronaldo supports Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup, saying it will be the best tournament ever. The winner of the bidding process was confirmed last December. Portugal qualified for the tournament co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, with Ronaldo set to play at the World Cup for a sixth time.
Trump has closely aligned himself with the 2026 World Cup, having loaned a copy of the golden trophy from FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the Oval Office.
Source: https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/47008079/ronaldo-joins-trump-saudi-crown-prince-white-house-dinner