Cristiano Ronaldo Sets New Saudi Pro League Record With 35 Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo concluded the Saudi Pro League season with a new goalscoring record, despite Al Nassr missing out on the league title. The 39-year-old Portuguese superstar scored twice in Al Nassr's 4-2 win over Al Ittihad, bringing his league tally to 35 goals, surpassing Abderrazak Hamdallah's 2019 record.

Ronaldo's first goal came in the final seconds of the first half after chesting down a long pass from Mohammed Al Fatil. His second goal, a header from a Marcelo Brozovic corner, prompted a standing ovation from home fans. "I don't follow the records, the records follow me," he noted on Instagram.

Throughout the season, Ronaldo scored four hat-tricks and received one red card. He was also suspended in February following an incident involving Al Shabab fans. Al Nassr finished second in the league, 14 points behind the unbeaten champions Al Hilal.

Al Hilal secured their 19th title with a world-record 34-game win streak, only interrupted by Al Ain in the Asian Champions League semi-finals. "This season has been truly exceptional," said Hilal coach Jorge Jesus.

Al Ittihad finished fifth, despite the additions of Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, and Fabinho. Al Ahli secured third place, 17 points behind Al Nassr, with Roberto Firmino scoring the decisive goal in their 1-0 victory over Al Fayha.

Ronaldo has another opportunity to secure a trophy when Al Nassr faces Al Hilal in the King’s Cup final on Friday.