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Cristiano Ronaldo was overcome with emotion as he finally lifted his first Saudi Pro League trophy with Al-Nassr following a memorable final-day victory. The Portuguese superstar was spotted in tears on the pitch during the closing moments of a 4-1 triumph over Damac, before joining fans in a lively drum celebration alongside the Al-Nassr ultras at Al-Awwal Park.

Al-Nassr end seven-year drought

Al-Nassr were crowned champions of Saudi Arabia for the 11th time after a commanding 4-1 win against Damac sealed their return to the top. Jorge Jesus’ men entered the decisive day knowing that nothing short of a flawless display would be enough to hold off unbeaten rivals Al-Hilal, and they duly delivered, capturing their first league title since 2019.

The atmosphere at Riyadh’s Al-Awwal Park was electric as early goals from Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman gave the hosts a strong advantage. Although Morlaye Sylla briefly revived Damac’s hopes with a converted penalty, the night ultimately belonged to Ronaldo, who netted twice to ensure Al-Nassr’s dominant finish.

Emotional scenes at Al-Awwal Park

The 41-year-old veteran rolled back the years by firing a low, powerful free-kick into the bottom corner from the left side — his first direct free-kick goal since August 2024. That strike took his tally to 27 league goals in what has been another prolific campaign. But Ronaldo wasn’t done yet; he later found space inside the box to slot home his second of the evening and Al-Nassr’s fourth, with just ten minutes to go. The magnitude of the achievement seemed to overwhelm the legendary forward, who was seen tearfully sitting on the bench after being substituted to a standing ovation. This victory marked a personal triumph for Ronaldo, who had previously finished second twice and third once since his arrival in Saudi Arabia in January 2023.

Drum celebrations and title glory

When the final whistle sounded, Ronaldo’s tears turned into joy. He joined the supporters in the stands, enthusiastically leading the traditional Al-Nassr drum celebration. The win placed Al-Nassr two points ahead of Al-Hilal, who, despite completing the campaign unbeaten, were unable to stop Jorge Jesus’ relentless side from lifting the trophy.

For Ronaldo, this triumph represents the eighth top-flight league title of his illustrious career across four different countries. With the Saudi Pro League now added to his list of achievements, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has further strengthened his legendary status in Riyadh by guiding Al-Nassr back to the summit of domestic football.

No Golden Boot, but World Cup ahead

Ronaldo’s brace against Damac helped secure the title for Al-Nassr but wasn’t enough to earn him the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot. He ended the season with 28 league goals, finishing behind Julián Quiñones of Al Qadsiah, who led the scoring charts with 33 goals, and Ivan Toney of Al Ahli, who netted 32.

Nevertheless, Ronaldo walked away with the most coveted prize — the league championship — and now turns his focus to the upcoming World Cup. The Portuguese captain has been included in Roberto Martinez’s final Portugal squad and is set to make an appearance at the global stage for a record sixth time.