Cristiano Ronaldo receives hero's welcome from Al Nassr fans

Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia in a surprise deal in the New Year, for a whopping Rs 1,770 crore annual salary till 2025, received an astounding welcome at the Saudi capital Riyadh for his unveiling. Take a look at some photos from the grand event...

Ronaldo joined the nine-time Saudi champions just weeks after his departure from Manchester United following an incendiary interview where he slammed the club and coach Erik ten Hag. Credit: AFP Photo

Ronaldo, upon joining, received a thunderous welcome at his new club in Saudi Arabia on January 3. Credit: Instagram/@cristiano

The packed, 25,000-capacity stadium erupted when Ronaldo, dressed in Al Nassr's yellow and blue kit, walked on to the pitch, saluting the crowd as fireworks erupted and floodlights flashed around him. Credit: Instagram/@cristiano

Ronaldo was greeted by fireworks and deafening roars at Al Nassr's Mrsool Park stadium in Riyadh. Credit: AFP Photo

Ronaldo greeted the club's fans with equal enthusiasm during his unveiling at the Mrsool Park Stadium. Credit: AFP Photo

Many Al-Nassr supporters waved the Portugal flag during Ronaldo's unveiling to salute the legend's contributions to international football. Credit: AFP Photo

Ronaldo's partner Georgina Rodriguez, wearing the traditional black abaya or all-covering robe worn by most Saudi women, followed at a distance along with the football icon's children. Credit: Instagram/@cristiano

Several Al-Nassr supporters waved yellow and blue Cristiano Ronaldo scarves during the forward's unveiling. Credit: AFP Photo

Ronaldo also posed for pictures with fans during his unveiling. Credit: AFP Photo

The 37-year-old went on to autograph a ball for the fans during the event. Credit: AFP Photo

The presenters, elated by the forward's presence, took selfies with Ronaldo during the unveiling ceremony. Credit: AFP Photo