Cristiano Ronaldo seems to have embraced Islamic culture during his time in Saudi Arabia, with a former teammate revealing that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner fasted during Ramadan alongside his Al Nassr teammates.
Speaking on the Thmanyah Sports podcast, former Al Nassr defender Shaye Sharahili said Ronaldo chose to fast for two days last year as a gesture of solidarity and curiosity, despite not being Muslim.
“Last year, Cristiano Ronaldo tried fasting with the Muslim players of Al Nassr during Ramadan,” Sharahili said, adding that the Portuguese star wanted to experience what Muslims feel during the fast.
Sharahili explained that Ronaldo undertook the fast as a personal experiment and as a way to connect more closely with the local culture.
However, there have been no reports suggesting that the former Real Madrid forward is observing the fast this time.
The 41-year-old forward has previously shown appreciation for Saudi traditions. He notably wore a traditional Saudi bisht after Al Nassr’s 4-0 win over Al Hazem on a landmark night when he surpassed 500 career goals after turning 30.
Ronaldo has also opened public addresses with “As-salaam-alaikum” and extended Eid Mubarak wishes to fans.
Ramadan holds special significance in the Saudi Pro League, where many players fast, prompting adjustments such as evening kick-offs to support athletes’ performance and recovery.
