Cristiano Ronaldo snubbed! Outgoing Al-Nassr star pipped to Saudi Pro League award by Al-Ittihad's Karim Benzema

Despite Ronaldo scoring 25 Saudi Pro League goals this season, compared to old Real Madrid team-mate Benzema's 21, the Frenchman has picked up this honour after playing a key role in their title triumph. His 30-goal contributions, to Ronaldo's 28, appear to have given the 37-year-old the edge.

Ronaldo, who effectively confirmed he will leave Al-Nassr this summer when his contract expires, earned a second-straight Golden Boot but his team finished third - 13 points behind league champions Al-Ittihad. The 40-year-old still has an eye for goal but Benzema's all-round game may have tipped the balance in his favour.

Former France international Benzema scored 23 goals and bagged nine assists for Al-Ittihad in 32 games in all competitions this season, whereas Ronaldo scored 35 goals and turned provider on four occasions in 41 outings.

Benzema, whose contract at the Saudi outfit expires in 2026, could finish the season with more silverware if his Al-Ittihad side can see off Al-Qadsiah in the King Cup of Champions final on Friday night.