Cristiano Ronaldo backs 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia to be 'best ever' as Al-Nassr superstar points to growth of Pro League

Ronaldo has backed the nation to make the tournament a success after FIFA announced the World Cup will return to the Middle East in 2034 for the second time in history, after Qatar hosted the flagship competition in 2022.

The Portugal icon has seen the growth in the standard of football and infrastructure in Saudi Arabia from close quarters in the last two years. He moved to Saudi in January 2023 and since then has been an integral part of Al-Nassr. He has broke multiple records in the Saudi Pro League and remains the biggest star in the nation despite the arrival of several top players recently.

After Saudi Arabia was formally declared the host nation of the 2034 World Cup, Ronaldo released a video on social media, saying: "2034 will be the best World Cup ever. It's amazing! The infrastructure, the stadiums, the conditions for the fans and everything and after what I see, I'm more convinced that 2034 will be the best World Cup ever.

"One or two of these kids that I will be together with today will play in the World Cup. I believe that they will continue to grow, especially the women as well, that they grow very well too. We have to grow together in everything. Not only in football but in life and I will motivate them to work hard, believe in that."

Speaking on the growth of the Saudi league, the 39-year-old added: "The league has grown so fast in the last year. If you see the difference, it's amazing. You have like seven or eight big clubs right now in the league that are very difficult to beat. The evolution of the players, for example, my teammates and the other teams too, that Saudis grow so fast and are becoming better players.

"The country is unbelievable. The Saudis are very good people. Every year, they do big events, football matches, boxing - entertainment is very high. The future is very bright in my opinion. And I am happy to be part of the success of this country and I will be here for sure to see the World Cup."

The ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid star will now enjoy a well-earned break before the Saudi Pro League resumes in January. His next game is on January 9 against Al-Okhdood.