Cristiano Ronaldo has sparked controversy by claiming that the Saudi Pro League is superior to Lionel Messi’s MLS, claiming that the US league is overrated.

One of the recent controversial topics that Cristiano Ronaldo has had to speak out about is the status of the Saudi Pro League (SPL) compared to the world’s top leagues. When discussing quality, Ronaldo has been outspoken in his rejection of MLS – where Lionel Messi plays – and has claimed that the league in the US is inferior to the SPL.

Since joining Al Nassr in December 2022, Ronaldo has been a driving force behind a wave of international stars moving to Saudi Arabia. His presence has helped elevate the league, making the SPL a more attractive destination. In an interview with Edu Aguirre on Spanish TV channel La Sexta, the Portuguese superstar spoke about his influence in Saudi Arabia.

“When I decided to come here, I didn’t think the league would grow so quickly, but I knew that in just one or two years, the SPL would become the top league, and it is. People don’t understand, they just judge and talk too much,” Ronaldo responded to criticism aimed at Saudi Arabian clubs.

He also compared how the media and fans view the SPL to MLS: “It’s a shame because when people talk about Saudi Arabia, they have a different view than they do in the US. Is MLS an inferior league? Obviously. But just because it’s Saudi Arabia, it’s not considered as highly regarded. But I know a lot of people really don’t know what they’re talking about… The players that play here alone are enough to give the league respect.”

Ronaldo’s comments follow his previous statement at the Globe Soccer Awards in December, when he claimed the Saudi Pro League had surpassed France’s Ligue 1. Now, Ronaldo has reinforced his stance, highlighting the rapid growth of the SPL and sharing his experience adjusting to life in a new country.

“I left home when I was young, I lived in many countries, experienced many cultures… so for me, this is not difficult. I just need to be with my family, my children and Georgina. As long as I have everything to make my family happy – education, safety, good schools, a nice house… Part of my life is football, and if football is good, my family is too”, Ronaldo concluded.