Cristiano Ronaldo joined President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at a White House dinner on Tuesday, underscoring the intersection of sports, politics, and international relations in a high-profile gathering. The event highlighted Saudi Arabia’s global ambitions and the strategic partnership with the U.S., with Ronaldo serving as a key figure in the kingdom’s modernization efforts.
The black-tie dinner at the White House brought together an elite group of guests, including tech billionaire Elon Musk, Apple CEO Tim Cook, and other influential business leaders, alongside the Saudi crown prince. President Trump hosted the event to honor Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing the strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations in a setting that merged diplomatic formality with celebrity appeal. This gathering underscored the role of high-profile individuals in fostering international relationships beyond traditional political channels.
During his speech, Trump personally acknowledged Ronaldo, noting that his son Barron is a devoted fan and had the opportunity to meet the soccer superstar. The president humorously remarked that this introduction might have boosted Barron’s respect for him, adding a relatable and light-hearted touch to the formal occasion. Such personal anecdotes humanized the event, drawing laughter from attendees and illustrating how sports figures can bridge cultural and generational divides in diplomatic settings.
Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi club Al-Nassr, has become a central ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy beyond oil through investments in sports and tourism. His contract, reportedly worth over $200 million annually, makes him one of the highest-paid athletes globally and a symbol of the kingdom’s push for modernization. By aligning with high-profile sports stars, Saudi Arabia seeks to enhance its global image and attract international attention to its development projects.
Saudi Arabia has aggressively expanded its sports portfolio in recent years, launching initiatives like LIV Golf, hosting Formula One races, and securing the rights to the 2034 FIFA World Cup. However, this rapid expansion has drawn criticism from human rights groups, who accuse the kingdom of “sportswashing” to deflect attention from its human rights record and environmental impact. Critics argue that such investments are designed to gain legitimacy and soften international perceptions amid ongoing concerns.
The crown prince’s visit occurred despite ongoing scrutiny over the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which U.S. intelligence linked to bin Salman. Trump has consistently defended the Saudi leader, and at the dinner, he praised the bilateral relationship, designating Saudi Arabia as a “major non-NATO ally” and highlighting mutual economic and security interests. This stance reflects the complex balance between strategic alliances and ethical considerations in international diplomacy.
Ronaldo’s appearance at the White House marks one of his few public visits to the U.S. in recent years, following past legal issues, including a denied sexual assault allegation from 2009 that did not result in charges. Looking ahead, he is expected to participate in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, which could be his final tournament, reinforcing his legacy in international soccer. This potential return to U.S. soil adds a personal dimension to his role in global sports diplomacy.
The event signals continued U.S.-Saudi cooperation, with business ties extending to Trump’s properties hosting LIV Golf events. As Saudi Arabia positions itself as a global sports hub, figures like Ronaldo play a pivotal role in its branding, illustrating how sports diplomacy can shape international relations. However, it also raises ethical questions about accountability, human rights, and the intersection of commerce and politics in shaping global narratives.
