President Trump hosted a high-profile dinner at the White House on Tuesday night, welcoming Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and notable guests including soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo. During the event, Trump shared that his son Barron had met Ronaldo earlier in the evening, expressing admiration for the football legend.
Trump noted during his speech: “My son is a big fan of Ronaldo,” adding that Barron got to meet him and “respects his father a little bit more now that I’ve introduced you.” The president thanked Ronaldo for attending, calling it an honor.
Ronaldo, who recently praised Trump as “ one of the guys who can help change the world,” expressed his desire to discuss global peace with the U.S. leader. In a recent interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo reflected on the personalized football shirt he gifted Trump, which read: “To president Donald J. Trump, Playing for Peace.”
Ronaldo also mentioned he “really likes” Trump and “wishes one day to meet him,” stating that “[Trump] can make things happen.” The 40-year-old star is set to represent Portugal in the upcoming World Cup in North America, where he will become the first player to participate in six men’s World Cups.
Currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, Ronaldo has become a prominent ambassador for the kingdom’s tourism authority since joining the team in 2023.
