In just a few years, the Saudi Pro League (SPL) has gone from a regional competition to one of the most talked-about football leagues in the world. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and major investments from the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the league is now attracting global stars, growing its audience, and making a name for itself far beyond the Middle East.
Cristiano Ronaldo Sparked a Global Shift
When Cristiano Ronaldo signed with Al-Nassr in 2023, it marked a major turning point for the league. His presence didn’t just boost ticket sales or shirt numbers, it brought international attention to Saudi football.
Ronaldo scored 35 goals in the 2023–24 season, setting a new league record. He’s continued his impressive form in the 2024–25 season, once again topping the goal charts with 25 goals.
Beyond the pitch, Ronaldo became the first person in the world to reach 1 billion followers across social media platforms—bringing the SPL into the global spotlight and massively expanding its reach.
Big Names Followed
Ronaldo’s arrival opened the doors for other world-class players to join the league. Stars like Karim Benzema, Neymar Jr., N’Golo Kanté, and Riyad Mahrez followed, raising the overall level of competition and fan interest.
Today, the Saudi Pro League is broadcast in over 160 countries, and league revenues have grown significantly. In fact, the league’s total value has jumped from around $150 million to more than $1.2 billion since 2022.
More Than Just Big Signings
While signing global icons has helped raise the league’s profile, Saudi Arabia is also investing in long-term growth. This includes:
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Upgrading stadiums and training facilities
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Developing youth academies
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Growing women’s football
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Creating more access to the game for local communities
These efforts align with the broader goals of Vision 2030, which aims to make sports a key part of the country’s economy and lifestyle.
Saudi Arabia is now preparing for even bigger milestones, including its official bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. With strong government support, growing international interest, and continued investment in both talent and infrastructure, the future of Saudi football looks bright.
The Saudi Pro League is no longer just making headlines, it’s shaping the future of global football. What started with Ronaldo’s headline, making transfer has evolved into a much bigger story of growth, ambition, and transformation. And this is just the beginning.
