Being the most influential sportsman in the world comes with a price, especially if you play for one of the best teams, which have direct rivals, as massive in fanbase, and in media influence.

This has been the story of Cristiano Ronaldo, whose level of consistency has granted him the privilege to only play for the biggest clubs in all the divisions he has played in, while also helping his country rise into the company of the elites.

From a Sporting CP prodigy tormenting Benfica in the Lisbon derby to leading a dominance era for Manchester United in the Premier League, Ronaldo arrived at the biggest club in the world, Real Madrid, to play in the biggest Clásico.

His relentlessness saw him secure a top move to Juventus even in his 30s, where he lit up the derby d'Italia in the Serie A, before eventually ending up in Saudi Arabia, opting to represent Al Nassr when presented a choice in the project.

While the five-time Ballon d'Or winner is loved by his fans, he is equally loathed by those of the opposition, and playing for Al Nassr doesn't win you many fans, especially if the duo of Al Hilal and Al Ittihad are considered higher in the pecking order.

His recent decision to go on a strike and not feature for Al Nassr in a couple of games drew a lot of reactions, with opinions divided on his real intention, as people choose to believe their own truth.

Indeed, the real cause of the decision from the former Real Madrid man is frustration, but this isn't just for his own selfish interest, but for the betterment of the Saudi Pro League, the project he moved to the Middle East to help develop.

Truth behind Cristiano Ronaldo's strike 

The core of Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent strike was a calculated protest against the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Al Nassr's management, ensuring the club's project remains a credible pillar of his mission to transform the Saudi Pro League into a world-class division.

The Portuguese, frustrated by a perceived lack of competitive ambition, sat out three matches, including a key clash against Al Riyadh, to demand structural changes and fair investment.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was reportedly unsatisfied with the club’s passive January transfer business, especially as rivals Al Hilal were permitted to sign marquee players like Karim Benzema from direct rivals, Al Ittihad.

For Ronaldo, this wasn't about personal ego, but ensuring Al Nassr possessed the political and economic power to challenge for top honors, which has eluded him since his move to the country.

Result of Cristiano Ronaldo's strike

His strike successfully pressured the board to reinstate key allies, including Sporting Director Simão Coutinho, and to settle overdue salaries for club staff.

Ronaldo returned to the pitch in mid-February and has played two games, scoring three goals, the latest of which came in the form of a brace against Al Hazem, which helped Al Nassr claim the league summit while hitting 501 career goals since turning 30.

Speaking in an interview after the 4-0 victory, Ronaldo addressed the speculation by reaffirming his commitment to the region's growth. He stated:

"I’m very happy. As I say so many times, I belong to Saudi Arabia. It’s a country that welcomed me, my family, and my friends very well. I want to continue here."

Looking forward

The objectives of the 41-year-old remain leading Al Nassr to their first league title since 2019, and after reclaiming the summit from Al Hilal, he will be hopeful that alongside his teammates, they can see out their lead.

The Portuguese has already played a direct involvement in 24 Al Nassr goals in as many games this season, with 21 of those (20 goals and one assist) coming in 20 league games as the battle to retain his top scorer award continues.

It's still a long way to go with 12 more games to play, including the visit of their main rival for the title Al Hilal in May, while they remain active in the AFC Champions League Two, having set up a quarter-final doubleheader with UAE side Al-Wasl.

Ronaldo, who is also 36 goals away from hitting the 1000 career milestone will hope the goals keep coming, and play a vital role in his quest to deliver the league title to Al Nassr, and maybe clock it at the FIFA World Cup come this summer.