Nearly nine months have elapsed since Cristiano Ronaldo signed for Al Nassr. During this period, the Portuguese sensation seamlessly integrated into both the on-field and off-field dynamics. As his time progresses in the Gulf country, the 38-year-old is embracing and enjoying the cultural traditions of the Gulf nation. In fact, he recently got showered with praise for respecting Saudi’s local culture.

Not just with his soccer prowess but Ronaldo’s embodiment of local customs has truly captured the public’s attention. In a country where cultural sensitivity and adherence to traditions hold immense value, the veteran has earned praise for his respectful approach.

Cristiano Ronaldo gets praised for respecting the local cultures of Saudi Arabia

Nothing less than extraordinary can be said about Ronaldo’s smooth incorporation into the Riyadh atmosphere. Be it wearing traditional attire or partaking in regional rituals and traditions, the CR7 has portrayed himself as a worldwide ambassador of cultural exchange. Subsequently, he received immense praise from the former Russian goalkeeper, Sergei Chepchugov.

Recently, the former CSKA Moscow goalkeeper spoke highly about the Al Nassr star. He said, “The Foreign players need to take an example from Cristiano Ronaldo, because he is a footballer of the highest level, Cristiano moved to a country where they profess a different religion, but Ronaldo follows all the rules.”

“It shows his respect for the local culture. When you come to a foreign territory, you need to be a guest and respect what is happening there. I am sure that politics should not affect sports.”

Chepchugov believes that even though Ronaldo is among the most important figures in Saudi Arabia, the striker is very humble in respecting the country’s norms. Despite following other religions, the skipper isn’t partaking in any kind of political agenda as well. Indeed, these are quite heartfelt words from the ex-Russian international.

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Observing Ronaldo effortlessly integrate into Saudi Arabian culture is a welcoming sight. After all, this is the least he could do, considering the significant rule exception he was granted alongside Neymar Jr.

CR7 and Neymar Jr. were allowed to bend the rules in the Saudi Arabian

Interestingly, Saudi Arabia found itself making a unique exception for the duo of soccer icons, Ronaldo and Neymar. This stems from the existing regulation that forbids unmarried couples from cohabiting. Given that CR7 and his longtime partner Georgina Rodriguez remain unmarried, the authorities opted to waive this requirement.

Likewise, emerging reports suggest a similar scenario is unfolding for Neymar. Authorities have provided consent for Neymar and his girlfriend, Bruna Biancardi, to share a residence, despite their lack of marital vows. Indeed, it shows the prominence of both superstars, who currently hold the Gulf nation’s primary spotlight in the sporting domain.

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