FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - Saudi Pro League - Al Nassr v Al Okhdood - Al-Awwal Park, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - November 24, 2023 Al Nassr's Cristiano Ronaldo reacts REUTERS/Ahmed Yosri/File Photo Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for one match after appearing to make an obscene gesture following Al Nassr’s 3-2 win over Al Shabab, the Disciplinary and Ethics Committee of the Saudi Football Federation (SAFF) said on Wednesday.
After the final whistle on Sunday, social media videos captured Ronaldo cupping his ear before repeatedly pumping his hand forward in front of his pelvic area. The action appeared to be directed at the rival Al Shabab supporters.
In the background, chants of “Messi” could be heard, referencing Ronaldo’s long-term football rival from Argentina.
The committee said the Portuguese star would have to pay a fine of 10,000 Saudi riyals ($2,666) to the Saudi Football Federation and 20,000 riyals to Al Shabab to cover the costs of the complaint filing fees.
The committee said the decision is not subject to appeal.
In April 2023, the 39-year-old Ronaldo appeared to grab his genitals while on his way to the dugout following the end of a league game against Al Hilal, which Al Nassr lost 2-0.
Al Nassr’s next match is Thursday.
Ronaldo, who moved to the Riyadh-based club in December 2022, has a league-leading 22 goals. He scored the opener against Al Shabab, a first-half penalty.
Al Nassr trail fellow league leader Al Hilal by four points, having played a game more. The team is also in the quarterfinals of the Asian Champions League, a tournament Al Nassr have never won.
