Arab News

LONDON: Cristiano Ronaldo said on Friday he believes the Saudi Pro League is better and “more competitive” than the French top flight division Ligue 1.

Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, the Al-Nassr superstar was honored as the Best Goalscorer of the year and as the Fan’s Favorite Player of the past 12 months at the glitzy ceremony.

“To be honest I think the Saudi League is not worse than French league, in my opinion,” he said.

“In the French league I think you have two, three teams with a good level. In Saudi now I think it’s more competitive. (People) can say whatever they want, it’s just my opinion and I’ve played there one year so I know what I’m talking about.

“But I think right now we are better than the French league, we can still improve.”

The Portuguese striker joined the Saudi club from Premier League Manchester United last year in a deal reportedly worth over $200 million.

He had a stellar goalscoring year with the Riyadh giants and for his country in 2023.

“I was the best goalscorer this season, imagine beating young animals like Erling Haaland. I’m proud, and I’ll be 39 soon,” he said.

“I like when people doubt me and then I’m successful. I don’t get affected by the criticism,” he added.

And Ronaldo shows no signs of slowing down, remaining positive about continuing playing amid talk of potential retirement.

“At the moment when I finish I don’t know to be honest,” he said. “Of course it will be soon. By soon I mean 10 years more. I’m just joking! I don’t know, let’s see.”