Quick Read
- Cristiano Ronaldo scores twice for Al-Nassr in a crucial match, reaching 20 league goals for the 15th time in his career.
- Ronaldo becomes the global ambassador for the Esports World Cup 2025, a groundbreaking event with a $70 million prize pool.
- Chess debuts at the Esports World Cup, featuring top players like Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana.
Cristiano Ronaldo, a name synonymous with football greatness, has once again captured global attention. From breaking records on the pitch to becoming a key figure in the burgeoning world of esports, Ronaldo’s influence transcends traditional boundaries. In 2025, the Portuguese football icon not only achieved another career milestone but also stepped into a new realm as the global ambassador of the Esports World Cup.
Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Feats
Earlier this year, on April 4, Ronaldo showcased his enduring brilliance in a crucial Saudi Pro League match against Al-Hilal. Representing Al-Nassr, he scored twice, hitting the 20-league-goal mark for the 15th time in his illustrious career. His first goal came in the 47th minute, while the second—a decisive penalty—sealed the match in the 88th minute. As Yahoo Sports noted, this achievement underscores Ronaldo’s unparalleled consistency, even at 40 years of age. His ability to perform at the highest level continues to inspire fans and players worldwide, solidifying his place as one of football’s all-time greats.
Ronaldo Joins the Esports Revolution
In June 2025, Ronaldo expanded his influence by becoming the global ambassador for the Esports World Cup. This event, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 8 to August 24, is one of the largest in esports history, featuring a record-breaking $70 million prize pool. Organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation and supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the tournament includes 26 competitions across 25 games, such as League of Legends, Counter-Strike 2, and DOTA 2.
Ronaldo’s involvement brings significant attention to the event, leveraging his massive global fan base to promote esports as a legitimate and thrilling form of entertainment. As Euronews highlighted, his presence aligns with the rapid growth of esports, which has evolved from a niche hobby into a multi-billion-dollar industry. With live streaming on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, the event is expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide.
Chess and Esports: A Surprising Combination
A standout feature of the 2025 Esports World Cup is the inclusion of chess, a game experiencing a renaissance thanks to online platforms like Chess.com. With a dedicated $1.5 million prize pool, the chess competition has drawn some of the biggest names in the sport. Five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana are competing for Team Liquid, while Hikaru Nakamura and Ian Nepomniachtchi represent other prominent teams. This fusion of traditional and electronic sports exemplifies the diversity and innovation driving esports forward.
Challenges and Triumphs on the Field
While Ronaldo continues to shine in esports, his football career remains equally compelling. In a recent Asian Champions League semi-final, his Al-Nassr team faced stiff competition. According to Goal, a standout defender from the opposing team managed to neutralize Ronaldo’s impact for much of the game, showcasing the evolving challenges he faces on the field. Despite these moments, Ronaldo’s resilience and adaptability remain key to his enduring success.
As Cristiano Ronaldo embraces new opportunities and breaks barriers, his journey serves as a testament to his unparalleled versatility and influence. From dominating football fields to championing esports, Ronaldo continues to redefine what it means to be a global icon.