The event that resulted in Cristiano Ronaldo’s one-match ban in Saudi Arabia, according to Ronaldo, is “not shameful” and “very normal” in Europe.
Ronaldo just got back from suspension after, while playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, he made an offensive gesture at the supporters of the opponent.
The Saudi Arabian Football Federation suspended the 39-year-old player for one match last month after he responded to calls for “Messi” by pointing to his crotch.
A punishment of 30,000 Saudi Riyals (£6,300) was also imposed on the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
It was decided that Ronaldo had broken Disciplinary and Ethics Regulation Article 57-1, which states: “Any person who causes public excitement by action, word, or gesture during any match shall be suspended for one match, and shall be punished with a fine of 10,000 riyals.”
Ronaldo has apologized and stated he didn’t mean to offend after serving his suspension.
“I will always respect the cultures of all countries, as I have respected to this day, but not always what people see is reality,” he said during a press conference.
“As I said and I will say again, it is obvious that I will not do it again in this country, but in Europe, it is very normal. “Sometimes the passion and excitement of the game leads us to make some mistakes.”
Ronaldo’s justification was consistent with his remarks made shortly after the incident: “I respect all clubs. And the joy after the [game] expresses strength and victory, and it is not shameful. We are used to it in Europe.”
In Ronaldo’s absence, Al-Nassr drew 4–4 with Al-Hazem, and after he returned, Al-Raed defeated them 3–1 at home. Across all competitions, Ronaldo has had an outstanding season, tallying 28 goals and dishing out 11 assists.
Al-Nassr is currently 12 points behind Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal, despite his contributions.
The former player for Real Madrid and Manchester United will try to score again on Monday when Al-Nassr plays Al Ain in the second leg of their quarterfinal matchup in the AFC Champions League.
The first leg was lost by Al-Nassr 1-0.
