Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo made an unexpected appearance at a high-profile White House dinner hosted by US President Donald Trump in honour of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). The event, held in the East Room on Tuesday, brought together top political leaders, global business magnates and select international guests — with Ronaldo among the most surprising attendees.
Ronaldo’s link to Saudi Arabia
Ronaldo currently plays for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League after signing with the club following the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Having spent nearly two decades with top European teams, the 40-year-old striker extended his contract with Al Nassr earlier this year. He has hinted that Saudi Arabia is likely to be the final chapter of his legendary career.
During his four seasons with the Riyadh-based club, Ronaldo has recorded 83 goals and 17 assists in 84 starts, cementing himself as the league’s biggest global icon. Since signing in 2023, he has regularly appeared in promotional campaigns for both the Saudi Pro League and the Saudi Tourism Authority.
Ronaldo has also spoken highly of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, referring to him as “our boss in Saudi Arabia” in a recent interview, underscoring the close association his career now has with the kingdom.
Star-studded seating at the East Room
Ronaldo was seated near the front of the East Room, close to where Trump and MBS addressed officials from the United States and Saudi Arabia. Industry leaders including Apple CEO Tim Cook and Tesla founder Elon Musk were also present. Before the formal proceedings began, Ronaldo was one of the final guests escorted to his place at the table.
He was seen engaging with attendees and even snapped a selfie inside the White House — an image that quickly spread online.
Trump acknowledges Ronaldo during his address
President Trump made a special mention of Ronaldo during his speech, sharing an anecdote about introducing the footballer to his teenage son, Barron. Trump thanked Ronaldo for attending and remarked that the meeting had impressed his son.
“I think he respects his father a little bit more now, just the fact that I introduced you,” Trump joked, drawing laughter from the gathering.
Ronaldo’s past comments on Trump
In earlier interviews, Ronaldo expressed admiration for Trump, describing him as “one of the guys who can help change the world.” He added that Trump is someone who “can make things happen”.
However, Ronaldo maintained his trademark confidence, noting that he believes he is more famous globally than Trump — a claim he reiterated during a conversation with broadcaster Piers Morgan.
Other football personalities at the event
While Ronaldo was the only active footballer present, FIFA President Gianni Infantino also attended the dinner. Infantino has frequently met Trump in the context of the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Infantino had met Trump privately just two days prior and is set to be present at major World Cup-related events in Washington, including the official draw on December 5 at the Kennedy Center.
Will Ronaldo feature in the 2026 World Cup?
Ronaldo stated earlier this month that the 2026 World Cup will be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage. The tournament is expected to be his farewell to international football after a career spanning over two decades.
Ronaldo last played in the United States in August 2014, when he appeared as a substitute for Real Madrid during an exhibition match against Manchester United in Michigan. If he features in the 2026 tournament, it will mark his long-awaited return to American soil.
Conclusion
Ronaldo’s surprise presence at the White House adds yet another highlight to his global profile and underscores his growing association with Saudi Arabia. As preparations intensify for the 2026 World Cup, his interactions with world leaders reflect his lasting influence — both on and off the field.