Cristiano Ronaldo’s Popularity Wanes at Al Nassr: Attendance Slumps in International Edition

Even after acquiring Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr saw an average attendance of only 16,292 fans per match this season, which is less than during their last title-winning year.

During a match with Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo can be seen in this photo taken by Al Nassr.

Ronaldo’s popularity at Al Nassr has noticeably declined. During his initial two seasons in the Saudi Pro League, matches held at Al Awwal Park Stadium consistently drew impressive audiences averaging 17,638 and 17,821 spectators each game. However, this current season has seen attendances fall by almost 10%, resulting in an average occupancy rate of just 65%.

During the team’s concluding home fixture of the campaign versus Al Khaleej on Monday, the crowd dipped to around 6,000 spectators, which represents just 24% of the arena’s total seating capacity. Should Ronaldo not extend his deal, this contest might well stand as his farewell appearance for Al Nassr, considering his agreement ends in June 2025 without indications of an extension being underway.

Prior to Ronaldo joining the team, Al Nassr attracted their largest crowds during their championship-winning years in the Saudi Pro League in the 2013–14, 2014–15, and 2018–19 seasons. Specifically, the 2018–19 campaign had an average attendance of 16,408 at Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium, which remains above the current season’s figures.
SSC Sports
reported.

Al Nassr ranks fourth in this season’s average attendance standings, trailing Al Ittihad (with 34,960 attendees), Al Ahli (at 20,825), and Al Hilal (which has 17,766 fans). Nonetheless, these top-three teams compete in bigger venues; both Al Ittihad and Al Ahli utilize the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, capable of holding more than 62,000 spectators.

Al Nassr are also the sole club among Saudi Arabia’s Big Four that hasn’t won a trophy this season. The squad has struggled under the coaching of
Stefano Pioli
are often considered the primary cause of decreased fan engagement.

In comparison, rival Lionel Messi’s influence in the U.S. continues to be significant. The home stadium of Inter Miami, known as Lockhart Stadium with a seating capacity of 21,550, saw an average attendance of 20,663 fans this season, translating to an impressive occupancy rate of 96%.

Before Messi joined the team, attendance at the stadium was approximately 58%. Additionally, the price of the least expensive tickets has increased dramatically from $25 to $280 since 2024.