Ronaldo 'amazed' by Saudi Arabia's progress in hosting mega sporting events

Despite facing criticism from a section of fans and critics for joining the Saudi Pro League, it seems that not only Cristiano Ronaldo remains undeterred by the backlash, but is actually "amazed" by the notable progress in Saudi Arabia's sports culture.

Ronaldo, who has scored more than 50 goals in a calendar year at the age of 38, joined Saudi football club Al Nassr back in December 2022 and has since then brought notable fame and recognition to the Saudi Pro League.

However, it is not only football that has witnessed a significant surge in popularity in the Middle Eastern country, but other sports such as boxing, Formula 1 races and other such mega-events, reported goal.com.

On Saturday, the Kingdom witnessed another mega sporting event with heavyweight boxers Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder — along with others — featuring in a star-studded fight night with Ronaldo, Connor McGregor and others in attendance.

Taking to social media, an elated Ronaldo commended the Kingdom for "taking sports to a whole new dimension".

With the Portuguese star's two-year contract, the biggest of its kind in the world, set to expire in 2025, it seems that the country is likely to maintain its current trajectory of sports frenzy in the coming months and years.

Saudi Arabia's progress in sports is further cemented by the fact that the country is set to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034.