In a surprising turn of events, renowned Portuguese psychologist, Filipa Torrinha Nunes, has delved into the psyche of Cristiano Ronaldo, suggesting a deeper issue following his recent one-game ban. This penalty was imposed after Ronaldo, playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, made controversial gestures towards Al-Shabab fans chanting Lionel Messi’s name during a 3-2 victory on February 25.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner not only faced a $6,800 fine but also missed the subsequent 4-4 draw against Al-Hazm on February 29. Nunes, appearing on the Portuguese program Alo Portugal, expressed her perspective:
“Cristiano Ronaldo exhibits a pattern of struggling with defeat, a trait that has been persistent since his childhood. While this intensity drives him to achieve greatness and be at the pinnacle of his game, it also hampers his ability to cope with occasional setbacks and criticisms. It appears that Ronaldo may not be adequately prepared to handle life’s inevitable failures.”
Nunes further elaborated on Ronaldo’s dichotomy:
“While he excels in maintaining perseverance, acknowledging the imperfections in his game seems to be a challenge. Accepting moments when he falls short, facing insults, encountering unfavorable reactions from fans, and acknowledging the eventual end of his illustrious career all seem to be areas where Cristiano Ronaldo might struggle.”
In the midst of this controversy, the 39-year-old striker is set to return to action in the AFC Champions League quarter-final against Al Ain on March 4.
Ronaldo, however, defends his actions, framing them as mere celebrations of a winning goal. The incident occurred after Talisca secured an 86th-minute victory in a tightly contested match against Al-Shabab, where Ronaldo himself contributed with a first-half penalty goal.
Speaking about the incident, Ronaldo asserted:
“I hold respect for all clubs, and the jubilation after scoring symbolizes strength and triumph, devoid of any shame. Such reactions are customary in European football.”
The absence of Ronaldo was palpable in the draw against Al-Hazm, considering his remarkable form this season, amassing 28 goals and 11 assists in 29 appearances across various competitions.
The Disciplinary and Ethics Committee of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) suspended Ronaldo for one match and imposed a 30,000 Saudi Riyals fine for his alleged obscene gestures towards fans. The incident, captured on social media, showed Ronaldo cupping his left ear and making provocative gestures in front of his crotch, accompanied by chants of “Messi, Messi.”
The disciplinary action was taken in accordance with Article 57-1 of the Disciplinary and Ethics Regulations, citing public excitement caused by Ronaldo’s actions during the match. The 39-year-old will have to pay fines of 10,000 Saudi Riyals to the Saudi Football Federation and 20,000 Saudi Riyals to Al Shabab, covering the costs of complaint filing fees.
In accordance with a report from the Arabic publication Al-Riyadiya, Ronaldo issued a statement, asserting, “I hold respect for all clubs. And the joy after the shot expresses strength and victory, and it is not shameful. We are used to it in Europe.” Ronaldo, however, is accused of breaching Article 57-1 of the Disciplinary and Ethics Regulations. This article stipulates that any individual causing public excitement through actions, words, or gestures during a match shall face a one-match suspension and a fine of 10,000 Saudi riyals. The 39-year-old will be required to pay a fine of 10,000 Saudi Riyals (Rs 2,21,137) to the Saudi Football Federation and an additional 20,000 Saudi Riyals (Rs 4,42,271) to Al Shabab to cover the costs of the complaint filing fees.
Discover specialized high-risk payment processors tailored to your industry needs.
Simplify your credit card processing for high risk businesses with this efficient and trusted provider.