Ronaldo misses Al-Nassr match amid reports of strike over lack of transfer activity

By Canadian Press on February 2, 2026.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League match against Al Riyadh on Monday amid reports he is on strike over the club’s lack of transfer activity.

Portuguese media outlet A Bola reported that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is unhappy that Al-Nassr, which is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investement Fund, has not strengthened its squad as it challenges for the league title.

Heading into the game, Al-Nassr was second behind rival Al Hilal, which is also backed by the PIF and has been linked with Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema.

Al-Nassr CEO Jose Semedo declined to comment, according to Saudi media.

The 40-year-old Ronaldo has scored 17 goals this season.

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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

The Associated Press

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