Cristiano Ronaldo returned to Washington on Tuesday night for a rare public appearance in the US, joining Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at a formal White House dinner attended by some of the world’s most influential business and political figures.
Trump, speaking before the event, said it was an “honour” to host the Portuguese star. Ronaldo has become one of the most recognisable faces in Saudi Arabia’s push to reshape its global image through sport and tourism. His presence at the dinner underscored the close ties between the former US president and the kingdom’s de facto leader.
The crown prince has spent years trying to steer Saudi Arabia away from its heavy dependence on oil by expanding into new sectors, including sport. Ronaldo, now captain of Al Nassr, has become central to that effort.
A White House official confirmed earlier in the day that the footballer would attend, though it was unclear whether he was officially part of the crown prince’s delegation.
During his remarks at the dinner, Trump praised the partnership with Saudi Arabia, calling it a “major non-Nato ally.” He also spoke warmly about Ronaldo.
“My son is a big fan of Ronaldo,” he told guests. “Baron got to meet him, and I think he respects his father a little bit more now, just because I introduced you.”
The guest list reflected a night of political power and business clout. Elon Musk was present, marking his first visit to the White House since leaving a government advisory post in April. Apple’s Tim Cook and other senior executives also attended. Musk’s appearance comes after months of public disagreements with Trump and his announcement that he planned to form a new political party.
For Ronaldo, the event marked one of his first known visits to the US since 2016. During that time, he faced a high-profile allegation of sexual assault relating to an incident in Las Vegas in 2009, which he denied. In 2019, US prosecutors declined to bring charges, saying the claims could not be proven.
Ronaldo signed with Al Nassr in early 2023, becoming the first major global name to join the Saudi Pro League in its new era of rapid expansion. Reports placed his salary at around $200m a year. He later signed a new two-year deal worth a reported $400m, making him football’s first billionaire player by Bloomberg’s estimate.
Analysts say his presence reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy. Sanam Vakil, director of the Middle East and North Africa programme at Chatham House, said the kingdom has “invested heavily in high-profile events and individuals to put the country on the map” as part of its modernisation plan.
Ronaldo has spoken positively about his relationship with the crown prince, calling him “our boss” in a past interview. Earlier this month, he appeared at a tourism event in Riyadh, praising Saudi development projects and expressing hope that the country will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
His visit to Washington may also have held personal significance.
He previously told broadcaster Piers Morgan that he hoped for a sit-down with Trump someday. “He’s one of those people I really like,” Ronaldo said. “I think he can make things happen, and I respect people like that.”
A Portugal football jersey given to Trump this summer, signed by Ronaldo with the message “Playing for Peace,” hinted at what the player sees as the purpose behind future conversations.
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