The Saudi Pro League has spent hundreds of millions on international stars in recent years. Yet for former Saudi sports minister Prince Abdullah bin Mosaad, only one player has truly delivered on what was expected: Cristiano Ronaldo. His comments—made on Al-Arabiya—have reignited the debate over the real impact of big-name signings brought in on record-breaking salaries.

Bin Mosaad did not hold back. For him, Ronaldo is the only foreign player whose performance and global influence justify his salary. In his view, no other imported star has generated the exposure, prestige, and international projection that the Portuguese forward brought to Al-Nassr starting in 2023.

“Ronaldo is the only foreign player worth what he earns because of the global impact he brings to the league and the country,” he said. “Many others are paid more than they deserve.” His words not only praise the former Real Madrid star—they also act as a pointed criticism of other well-paid players who, despite their high-profile arrivals, have failed to transform the league’s image.

The Ultimate Ambassador of the Saudi Pro League

For Bin Mosaad, Ronaldo is far more than an elite footballer. He is a global brand, a commercial magnet, and the main reason the Saudi league has reached a new level of international visibility. Since his arrival, viewership, sponsorship interest and global media attention have all surged.

At 40 years old, the Portuguese star continues to influence the sport off the pitch—and dominate on it. Just last week, he shocked fans again by scoring a spectacular bicycle kick, raising his tally to 11 goals in 12 matches this season. A level of performance that, according to the former minister, validates every word of his praise.

Ronaldo’s Future… and the League’s

Ronaldo recently acknowledged that he is nearing the end of his distinguished career, though he insists he still enjoys every moment. “When you reach a certain age, you count the months faster,” he said. “Maybe I have one or two more years.”

Meanwhile, the Saudi Pro League faces an uncomfortable question: if only Ronaldo is justifying the enormous financial investment, what does that say about the rest of the stars who were expected to elevate the project?

One thing is clear:
For Saudi Arabia, there is only one foreign player who has truly changed the game—Cristiano Ronaldo.