Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that his obsence gesture to Al-Shabab fans was a "mistake" and pledged not to do it again after serving a suspension.
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Article continues below
- Ronaldo apologizes for obscene gesture
- Claims the gesture wasn't offensive in Europe
- Says he 'won't do it again' after suspension
- Getty Images – Goal AR
WHAT HAPPENED?
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner received a Saudi Pro League suspension in February after his obscene gesture towards Al-Shabab fans, who chanted Lionel Messi's name towards the Portuguese forward after Al-Nassr's 3-2 win. He apologized but continued to defend his actions by claiming that the same thing would have gone unnoticed in Europe.
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WHAT RONALDO SAID
Speaking at a press conference, the former Real Madrid forward reiterated his stance, but also promised not to repeat the gesture. "I will always respect the cultures of all countries, as I have respected to this day, but not always what people see is reality," he said. "As I said and I will say again, it is obvious that I will not do it again in this country, but in Europe, it is very normal. Sometimes the passion and excitement of the game leads us to make some mistakes."
- Getty
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The suspension saw the former Manchester United player miss Al-Nassr's high-scoring 4-4 draw against Al-Hazm. Al-Nassr currently sit second in the league but 12 points away from Al-Hilal, who have seemingly run away with the league title. Ronaldo has hit 22 goals in 21 appearances in the league for Al-Nassr this season, but they haven't been consistent enough as a collective to get to the top of the table.
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WHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
The Portugal captain will be in action again for Al-Nassr in a crucial second-leg clash against Al-Ain in the quarter-finals of the Asian Champions League. Al-Nassr will have to come back from a 1-0 deficit at Al-Awwal Stadium on Monday, March 11.
