Ronaldo finds home and purpose in Saudi Arabia

October 9, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia wasn’t just a headline-grabbing transfer, it marked the beginning of a deeper personal and professional journey. In a rare and candid interview on The Byron Cooke Show on MBC Loud FM, the football icon opened up about how life in the Kingdom has reshaped his priorities, from family life and wellness to business ventures and cultural connection.

The interview painted a fuller picture of Ronaldo, not just as a legendary athlete, but as an entrepreneur, father, and man embracing a new chapter in the Middle East.

A new chapter in Riyadh

Cristiano Ronaldo is embracing life off the pitch as passionately as he plays on it. In a recent exclusive radio interview with MBC Loud FM’s The Byron Cooke Show, the global football icon offered fans a rare glimpse into his world beyond football.

Falling for the Red Sea

CRISTIANO-RONALDO BYRON-COOKE — MBC Loud FM, The Byron Cooke Show

During the interview, Ronaldo shared his love for the Red Sea coast, revealing it’s a go-to escape for him and his family. Whenever his packed schedule allows, they head to Saudi’s scenic coastal spots, where he enjoys the natural beauty and tranquility of the region.

More than a footballer

While he’s known worldwide for his football career, Ronaldo is also building a different legacy in the Middle East. He discussed his daily life in Riyadh, shedding light on how he balances training with quality family time and personal interests.

Investing in the future

Ronaldo is also carving out a name for himself in the business world. In the interview, he spoke about his entrepreneurial ventures, including a hair transplant clinic in Riyadh. His involvement in Saudi Arabia’s growing wellness industry shows a deeper connection to the Kingdom’s future.

Inspire clinics take root

Erakulis - Cristiano Ronaldo — https://erakulis.com/en-GB

Through Inspire, the wellness company he co-founded, Ronaldo is helping promote confidence and aesthetics. The clinic focuses on hair care and self-esteem, and its expansion into Riyadh marks a major milestone in his business portfolio.

Saudi Arabia feels like home

Ronaldo now refers to Saudi Arabia as his “home.” His affection for the country is clear, and it's not just professional, he’s personally invested in the culture, lifestyle, and energy of the region.

Wellness as a way of life

Despite his demanding football schedule, Ronaldo remains committed to health and wellness. For him, it’s not just a business, it’s a belief. He views physical health and appearance as central to self-confidence and living well.

Leading by example

At 40, Ronaldo continues to break records on the pitch, proving that fitness and age can coexist. His role as a health ambassador through Inspire aligns perfectly with his personal philosophy: stay healthy, stay confident.

From Europe to the Gulf

Ronaldo’s transition to life in Saudi Arabia is more than a career move. It represents a broader shift in focus, one that includes family, wellness, and business expansion, all while immersing himself in a new culture.

A personal connection

Whether he’s scoring goals for Al Nassr or building clinics in Riyadh, Ronaldo is embracing Saudi Arabia not just as a place to work, but as a place to grow. And judging by his words and actions, he’s only just getting started.