Donald Trump publicly praised soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo during a White House dinner on November 18th. Ronaldo was among several notable guests at the event, which coincided with the U.S.
president hosting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Trump stated that his son, Barron, is a big fan of Ronaldo and that he felt honored to introduce them.
Ronaldo reciprocated the sentiment, having previously expressed his admiration for Trump, calling him "one of the guys who can help change the world" and expressing a desire to meet him for a conversation. Ronaldo's presence at the White House came as he prepares to represent Portugal in his sixth men's World Cup.
The soccer star currently plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr and has become an ambassador for the kingdom's tourism authority. Trump has shown a significant interest in soccer since returning to the presidency, hosting several related events.
Ronaldo's appearance marked his first in the U.S. in approximately ten years.
