Ronaldo says Saudi Pro League is better than French Ligue 1 at Dubai’s Globe Soccer Awards

Cristiano Ronaldo said on Friday he believes the Saudi Pro League is better and “more competitive” than the French top flight, Ligue 1.

The Al-Nassr superstar, who was speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, was honored as the Best Goalscorer of the Year and Fans’ Favorite Player of the past 12 months at the glitzy ceremony.

He said: “To be honest, I think the Saudi league is not worse than (the) French league, in my opinion.

“In the French league I think you have two, three teams at a good level. In Saudi, now I think it’s more competitive. (People) can say whatever they want, it’s just my opinion and I’ve played there one year so I know what I’m talking about.

“But I think right now we are better than the French league; we can still improve.”

The Portuguese striker joined the Saudi club from Premier League Manchester United last year in a deal reportedly worth over $200 million.

He had a stellar goalscoring year with the Riyadh giants and for his country in 2023.

He added: “I was the best goalscorer this season. Imagine beating young animals like Erling Haaland. I’m proud, and I’ll be 39 soon.

“I like when people doubt me and then I’m successful. I don’t get affected by the criticism.”

Ronaldo shows no sign of slowing down and remains positive about continuing playing amid talk of possible retirement.

He said: “At the moment when I finish I don’t know, to be honest. Of course, it will be soon. By soon, I mean 10 years more. I’m just joking. I don’t know; let’s see.”