Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The world of sports witnessed a unique blend of football royalty and rising racket sport stars as Cristiano Ronaldo attended the Riyadh Season Premier Padel P1 tournament. The Portuguese football legend, known for his incredible career in football, was spotted courtside, closely following the action and celebrating the success of his fellow Portuguese players, Miguel and Nuno Deus.
Padel Fever in Riyadh
Padel, a fast-growing racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, continues to gain international recognition. Played on an enclosed court about a third the size of a tennis court, padel is always played in doubles and is known for its fast-paced rallies and strategic play off the walls. Ronaldo’s presence at the tournament highlights the sport’s growing prestige and its appeal to global sports icons.
Celebrating Portuguese Talent
Miguel and Nuno Deus delivered an outstanding performance in the final qualifying round, securing their spot in the tournament’s main draw. Ronaldo, who has always been a proud supporter of Portuguese athletes, was seen cheering enthusiastically for the duo. Their success is a testament to the talent and dedication of Portuguese players on the international stage.
Global Sports Icons Show Their Enthusiasm
Ronaldo joins an impressive lineup of global sports figures who have shown their enthusiasm for Premier Padel. Last year, Neymar Jr. attended the Riyadh event, while football legends such as Zlatan Ibrahimović, Esteban Cambiasso, Leandro Paredes, and Paulo Dybala have also been seen at major padel tournaments. Beyond football, combat sports stars like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Ilia Topuria have been drawn to the sport.
A New Season, A New Frontier
The Riyadh Season Premier Padel P1 marks the opening tournament of the 2025 season, following a remarkable 2024 campaign that included 24 tournaments across 16 countries. As part of Premier Padel’s continued global expansion, the event brings world-class padel to Saudi Arabia, with top international players competing for crucial ranking points and the season’s first title.
Ronaldo’s Endorsement
Having Ronaldo in attendance is yet another sign that padel is no longer just a niche pursuit—it’s a movement. “His endorsement of the sport adds to its growing momentum and profile, making it clear that padel is more than just a game—it’s the next big thing in global sports.”
As the tournament progresses, fans and players alike eagerly await more thrilling matches and the continued rise of padel on the world stage, with legends like Ronaldo giving it their seal of approval.
