Will Cristiano Ronaldo convert to Islam?

The Portuguese striker performed the typical Muslim prayer posture after putting his Saudi team in front. Al-Nassr went 2-0 down in Tuesday’s game but eventually beat Al-Shabab 3-2 thanks to Ronaldo’s strike.

Videos online (see below) show Ronaldo, surrounded by his team-mates, kneeling on the pitch and touching his hands and head to the ground. Muslims believe that in this position, known as Sujud, they come closest to God. It is always performed toward the Kaaba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which is considered the central sanctuary of Islam. Many Muslim footballers also thank God with the gesture after successful shots on goal.

Arab fans were enthusiastic about Ronaldo’s Sujud. Some even expressed hope on social media that the 38-year-old could convert to Islam. Others interpreted the bow as a gesture of respect to Muslim believers.

Different interpretation

The Spanish newspaper “Mundo Deportivo” reported that Ronaldo wanted to leave Saudi Arabia as soon as possible because he could no longer bear the situation in the country. So far he has not commented on the situation or his life in the strictly conservative Gulf state.

Almost six months ago, Ronaldo signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Saudi club. According to media reports, including advertising revenue, he should get the equivalent of around 200 million euros per season. His club Al-Nassr is currently second in the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Ittihad at the top of the table.