Cristiano Ronaldo in tears as Al-Nassr win Saudi Pro League title, ending three-year drought | WATCH

Riyadh: Cristiano Ronaldo secured his long-awaited first major championship with Al-Nassr on Thursday, scoring twice in a 4-1 victory over Damac Club to claim the Saudi Pro League title on the final matchday of the season.

The triumph marked the first top-tier trophy for the club since the 41-year-old Portuguese forward joined the franchise more than three years ago. Ronaldo, whose last major professional honour came in 2020 during his tenure with Juventus, was visibly overcome with emotion, weeping on the bench as the match concluded.

Following the championship presentations, Ronaldo published a celebratory video on social media showcasing himself and his teammates alongside the caption: “It means so much to us.” The post featured the phrase “Yalla Nassr,” an Arabic expression translating to “Come on, Al Nassr!” which serves as a traditional rallying cry for the team's fan base.

Championship Race and Match Dynamics

The final-day victory allowed Al-Nassr to secure the top position in the domestic standings, finishing two points clear of cross-town rivals Al-Hilal. Al-Hilal concluded the 34-game league schedule in second place despite completing the entire season undefeated.

Al-Nassr established structural control over the match through goals from wingers Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman, who scored on opposite sides of the halftime intermission. With Al-Nassr holding a 2-1 advantage just past the hour mark, Ronaldo extended the lead by curling a free kick from the left flank through a congested penalty area and into the back of the net, marking his 27th league goal of the campaign.

Ronaldo added his second goal of the night eight minutes before the final whistle, capitalising on a close-range chance and firing high into the net to cement the result. The five-time Ballon d’Or recipient was substituted to a standing ovation with three minutes left in regulation. He was seen in tears on his way towards the bench.

Milestones and Historical Context

The domestic title is the 11th league championship in the history of Al-Nassr and its first since 2019.

The trophy presentation took place only two days after national team selectors included Ronaldo in Portugal’s official roster for the upcoming World Cup. His participation in the tournament will establish a historical milestone, marking his sixth career appearance at the global event.

With inputs from AP