Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for one match by Saudi soccer chiefs after appearing to make an obscene gesture at the end of Al Nassr’s recent win over Al Shabab.
Ronaldo was reportedly summoned by Saudi Pro League chiefs to explain the gesture he made towards supporters who were chanting great rival Lionel Messi’s name towards him after Sunday’s game.
As fans chanted ‘Messi, Messi’ from the stands, the 39-year-old was seen cupping his ears before signaling towards his nether regions in a video which quickly went viral on social media
The committee said he would have to pay a fine of 10,000 Saudi riyals ($2,666) to the Saudi Football Federation, and 20,000 riyals to Al-Shabab to cover the costs of the complaint filing fees.
The committee said the decision is not subject to appeal.
Reports from Spanish outlet Marca claim Ronaldo’s gesture was seen as ‘immoral’ in the highly-religious country.
In April last year, he also appeared to grab his genitals while on his way to the dugout following the end of a league game against Al Hilal, which Al Nassr lost 2-0.
Before receiving the suspension on Wednesday, the Portugal captain spoke out after coming under fire for the celebration, moving to defend his actions and insisting he meant no disrespect.
‘I respect all clubs,’ said Ronaldo. ‘And the joy after the [game] expresses strength and victory, and it is not shameful. We are used to it in Europe.’
After Ronaldo had opened the scoring from the penalty spot, his side were pegged back by a spot kick from former Atletico Madrid star Yannick Carrasco on the brink of half-time.
Talisca restored the visitors’ lead following the restart, and the Brazilian was again on hand to secure a late winner for Al Nassr after Carlos equalized for the hosts.
With three points secured by the 3-2 win, Ronaldo congratulated his teammates at the full-time whistle.
But in response to fans chanting Messi’s name at him, he put his hand to his ear before making a gesture towards his crotch with the signal seemingly aimed at the supporters in attendance – a move which has landed him in hot water.
