“This room is filled with some of the world’s biggest names in business and sports,” Trump said during the event. “My son is a huge Ronaldo fan — Ronaldo is here tonight, and Barron finally got to meet him. I think he respects his father a bit more now,” he joked.
Ronaldo, now 40, currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. The upcoming World Cup — hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada — is expected to be his final appearance at the global tournament.
After his abrupt departure from Manchester United in late 2022, Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr on a deal reportedly exceeding $200 million per year. He extended his contract this June for another two seasons. His move to Saudi Arabia helped pave the way for other global stars, including Neymar and Karim Benzema, to join the league as well.
Saudi Arabia has dramatically expanded its influence in international sports, launching LIV Golf, hosting Formula One races, organizing major boxing events and securing hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Critics, however, argue that the country is using sports to distract from its human rights record.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is already deeply involved in Saudi Arabia’s sportswashing efforts,” said Jules Boykoff, a scholar specializing in sports and politics at Pacific University. “By appearing at this White House dinner, he’s now contributing to Trump’s own attempt at sportswashing — using global sports icons to overshadow social and human rights issues at home.”
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s presence also revived scrutiny. He faced global condemnation after the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, though Trump continued to defend the Saudi leadership even after U.S. intelligence concluded the prince ordered the assassination. Trump has longstanding personal business ties to Saudi Arabia, including hosting LIV Golf events at several of his properties.
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