Cristiano Ronaldo extends remarkable 24-year streak with instant impact on return from Al Nassr boycott

Cristiano Ronaldo marked his return to Al Nassr with yet another goal just days after turning 41.

The Portuguese legend went on strike at the beginning of the month in protest against Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund [PIF].

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Ronaldo was unhappy with their lack of financial support for Al Nassr during the transfer window, whilst their rivals strengthened.

PIF also have a 75 per cent stake in fellow Saudi Pro League teams Al Hilal, Al Ittihad and Al Ahli.

He missed three matches during the boycott, but was back in action on Saturday evening as Al Nassr continued their quest for the title.

Ronaldo found the back of the net with a well-timed finish against Al Fateh, increasing his career goal tally to 962 for club and country.

The icon has also now scored in 24 consecutive years in a run that began at Sporting Lisbon when he was aged 17.

He has found the net at every age since then, now extending his streak to the age of 41.

Ronaldo netted his first two goals of his professional career during a 3-0 league win over Moreirense in October 2002.

And his latest has come in February 2026, just nine days after his birthday.

Al Nassr eventually beat Al Fateh 0-2 and sit second in the Saudi Pro League, one point behind leaders Al Hilal.

Ronaldo strike sparks exit fears

There’s no question that much of the rise of Saudi Arabian football is down to Ronaldo and his impact as a global icon.

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Many established stars such as Neymar, Sadio Mane and Riyad Mahrez have followed him to the top division since his move in 2023.

Ronaldo’s contract expires in the summer of 2027, but his future at Al Nassr was thrown into doubt amid his strike.

talkSPORT reported that he told PIF and league officials that he was prepared to leave Saudi Arabia due to the funding dispute.

He was left angered when his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema signed for Al Hilal from Al Ittihad.

Ronaldo had no issues with him switching PIF-owned clubs, but did not understand how they got funds to match the striker’s demands.

Tensions continued to build despite him returning to training, but these may have alleviated now that he’s back on the pitch.

Ronaldo will be eyeing the Saudi league title at the end of the season before heading to the World Cup with Portugal.