US EditionRonaldo remains the face of the Saudi soccer league as the season kicks off
Cristiano Ronaldo remains the league's key figure, helping the Saudi Pro League expand its global fan base to 180 countries and doubling international sponsorships, officials said.
- The Saudi Pro League began on Thursday with three matches, and on Friday, Ronaldo’s team Al-Nassr faced Al Taawoun in their opening game.
- Ronaldo joined the league in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United, and the 'Big Four' clubs were acquired by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in 2023 to boost growth.
- Last season, three of the four Asian Champions League semifinalists were Saudi teams, including Al-Ahli winning the title, while Al-Hilal made a strong showing at the Club World Cup.
- The league expanded its global reach to 180 countries last season, social media followers rose from 11 million to 15 million, and sponsorship deals surged by 200%, reflecting real growth.
- Experts acknowledge Ronaldo raised international awareness but say sustainable fan engagement and deeper global support for Saudi clubs will require years to develop.
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Associated Press News+16 Reposted by 16 other sources
Ronaldo remains the face of the Saudi soccer league as the season kicks off
Cristiano Ronaldo remains the face of the Saudi soccer league as the season kicks off. And the league is aiming to make the most of the brand recognition.
·United States
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Local Championship Kicks Off in Saudi Arabia
Coverage Details
Total News Sources18
Leaning Left8Leaning Right0Center6Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Left
Bias Distribution
- 57% of the sources lean Left
57% Left
L 57%
C 43%
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