Fans believe Cristiano Ronaldo is already the “greatest player of all time” despite only taking a brief vacation from football to try out a new sport.
Ronaldo’s eventful season, which included his tumultuous departure from Manchester United in December, came to a disappointing conclusion last month when his club Al-Nassr failed to win the league championship.
The Saudi Professional League’s second-place position was assured following last Wednesday’s 3-0 victory over Al Fateh as the Portuguese superstar rested.
During his post-season journey to Asia, Ronaldo visited Singapore to raise awareness of several charitable endeavors.
The 38-year-old participated in a game of Padel tennis while he was there, which is regarded as the fastest-growing sport in Europe.
Young people gathered around the court to support the former Real Madrid player, who later uploaded a photo of himself playing with the comment, “Coming soon to Asia @primepadelsport – thanks for the rally!”
Ronaldo, who has scored 14 goals in 16 games for Al Nassr this season, appeared equally at ease holding a racquet as he did a ball in his hands.
Fans dubbed him the new GOAT of Padel after watching footage of him playing go viral.
A supporter wrote, “This is why Cristiano Ronaldo is the greatest Padel tennis player of all time.”
A different person remarked, “My goat, even the best at padel.”
The GOAT Shines in whatever he sets his mind to, according to a third supporter. The best in the world, indeed.
Despite rumors that he would return to Madrid or join German powerhouse Bayern Munich, Ronaldo just stated that he will remain in Saudi Arabia.
In a statement, Ronaldo said, “I am pleased here, I want to continue here, and I will continue here.
“And in my opinion, the Saudi League can rank among the top five leagues in the world if they continue to accomplish the job that they want to do here over the next five years.
“I will be a part of your world, your culture, and I will be here. I hope I can make the people enjoy themselves through my games, my performances, and my ability to win things. But again, thank you for having me, and I will try to do my best while I am here.”