Cristiano Ronaldo had long spoken of one day meeting U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss world peace. In a recent interview with Piers Morgan, the Portuguese footballer said: “He is one of the guys who can help to change the world. One of the most important guys is the U.S. president. If we can help each other to make this happen, I’d really like to sit down with him.”
That wish became reality on Tuesday, Nov. 18, when Ronaldo attended a black-tie dinner at the White House. The event also hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and Apple CEO Tim Cook. Ronaldo, 40, expressed admiration for Trump, telling reporters, “I think he can make things happen, and I like people like that.”
Trump returned the praise, saying, “My son is a big fan of Ronaldo… it’s an honour.” He added that meeting the footballer had impressed his youngest child, Barron, who got the chance to meet Ronaldo in person.
Beyond politics, Ronaldo’s global profile has only grown. He currently plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, where he reportedly earns $200 million a year. Earlier this year, he signed a two-year deal worth $400 million, making him football’s first billionaire player, with a net worth estimated at $1.4 billion.
Ronaldo has also become a key ambassador for Saudi tourism. He has praised Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, calling him “our boss,” and promoted the kingdom’s development projects and ambitions for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Analysts note that Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in high-profile athletes and events to elevate its global image in sports and tourism.
Looking ahead, Ronaldo will represent Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, set across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Alongside Lionel Messi, he will become the first player to participate in six men’s World Cups. Portugal officially qualified on Nov. 17, and Ronaldo confirmed that 2026 will “definitely” be his last tournament.
Tuesday’s White House appearance marked Ronaldo’s first public visit to the U.S. in nearly a decade, blending sport, diplomacy, and global spectacle in a single, high-profile moment.
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