By: Akinde S. Oluwaseun

Let me tell you about this guy, Cristiano Ronaldo. At 40, he’s still out there dazzling like it’s nothing. Al-Nassr’s manager, Jorge Jesus, just called him a shining example for all of football. Came after their big win in the Saudi Super Cup semi-final on Tuesday. Against rivals Al-Ittihad. Ronaldo could’ve grabbed the glory himself—had a clear shot. But nah. He passes it off to his Portugal buddy Joao Felix, who taps it into an empty net. Selfless move. Classy.

Ronaldo’s been around forever, right. Former star at Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus. Scored a whopping 938 goals in 1,281 games for club and country. That’s insane. Joined Al-Nassr back in 2022, after some drama with Erik ten Hag at United. His move? It basically flung open the doors to Saudi football for everyone else. Now the league’s buzzing.

This summer, Al-Nassr beefed up with signings like Inigo Martinez and that same Joao Felix. All in chase of the Pro League title. Felix even netted in that semi. But here’s the kicker from Jesus: 80% of the fans packing the stands? They’re there for Ronaldo. Plain and simple. He said it himself, quoted somewhere: “Ronaldo is a great example for world football, a 40-year-old player who delivers athletic and physical performance, and let’s not forget that 80% of the fans in attendance are here for Ronaldo, and Al Nassr deserves to have this global star.”

No slowing down for CR7. Still drawing crowds. Still making waves. What’s next for him. You gotta wonder.