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Al-Nassr superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has said that he felt honoured to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ahead of the inaugural esports World Cup.
Ronaldo, 38, is one of the best players in football history and one of the most searched athletes online. He arrived at Al-Nassr in December last year on a free transfer after mutually terminating his deal with Manchester United.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Crown Prince has announced plans to host the first-ever sports World Cup annually in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh starting 2024. As per Reuters, clubs will compete across various games and genres to become the Esports World Cup champion. The tournament will have a record prize money for an esports event.
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It's part of MBS' ambitious Vision 2030 plan as he looks to diversify the predominantly oil-driven Saudi economy and provide a fillip to the region's tourism. Ronaldo interacted with the Crown Prince to discuss the esports World Cup and posted on Instagram:
"An honour to meet again with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman and great to be part of this panel today discussing the future of esports and the launch of the first ever #esportsworldcup that will be held in Saudi Arabia next year!"
Cristiano Ronaldo in sizzling form for club and country in 2023
Cristiano Ronaldo has been on a tear for club and country this year. Following his fabulous free-kick winner in Al-Nassr's 2-1 Saudi Pro League win over Damac at the weekend, he now has 41 goals for club and country in 2023.
That's the most any player has netted this year, one ahead of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. The Norwegian netted for Manchester City at the weekend in their Premier League win over Brighton & Hove Albion at home.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo's tally of goals in 2023 comprises 32 strikes for Al-Nassr and nine for Portugal. All nine strikes have come in their successful UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
The Portugal captain struck braces against Slovakia and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the recent international break to move to 127 goals for Portugal in 203 games.
