Cristiano Ronaldo Sparks Debate After Claiming Saudi Pro League Is Better Than Ligue 1 And Portuguese League

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again set the football world buzzing — this time with bold comments about the quality of the Saudi Pro League (SPL).

In a recent chat with Piers Morgan on his YouTube podcast, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner claimed that the Saudi league is “better than the Portuguese league and better than Ligue 1 — it’s only PSG.”

The statement instantly sparked heated debates across social media, with fans and pundits dissecting his claim and questioning whether Ronaldo was simply hyping up his current league or truly believed it.

Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Run In Saudi Arabia

Since joining Al Nassr, the Portuguese legend has been nothing short of phenomenal. He’s become the club’s fourth-highest goal scorer of all time — netting 108 goals in just 121 appearances — while also setting the Saudi Pro League’s single-season scoring record.

Ronaldo has lifted one trophy with the club and continues to draw global attention to the SPL, helping to transform it into a star-studded competition featuring elite players from across Europe.

“Why Don’t They Count Saudi Goals For The Ballon d’Or?”

Ronaldo didn’t stop there. He also questioned why his Saudi Pro League goals and assists aren’t considered in Ballon d’Or voting, saying:

“Why don’t they count Saudi Pro League goals and assists for the golden ball? It’s all excuses.”

His comments reignited discussions around football’s global hierarchy, with many fans arguing that while the SPL has improved dramatically, it still trails behind Europe’s top five leagues in quality and competitiveness.

Fans Fire Back Online

As expected, social media had a field day with Ronaldo’s statement. Some fans agreed that the SPL is growing rapidly, but many mocked his comparison:

“CR7 calling Saudi Pro League better… next he’ll say Monopoly is more competitive than La Liga.”

“I also want the goals I scored in my backyard to be considered for the golden boot.”

“Bro would say Saudi is tougher than the Premier League if they doubled his bonus.”

Despite the backlash, Ronaldo stood firm — confident that the league’s level is being underestimated and that his performances deserve greater global recognition.

A Controversial but Calculated Claim

It’s not the first time the Portuguese superstar has stirred conversation with his opinions, and it likely won’t be the last. Whether or not the football world agrees, one thing is certain — Cristiano Ronaldo continues to make headlines both on and off the pitch.

At Sports Market International, we celebrate every angle of the game — the passion, the controversy, and the legends who keep football exciting.