Keith Olbermann, a former sports commentator known for his sharp political rhetoric, has taken to social media to publicly criticize Cristiano Ronaldo, labeling the soccer star as a ‘fascist scumbag’ following his recent White House visit. The incident took place during a dinner hosted in honor of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where Ronaldo was among the dignitaries. The event, which marked Ronaldo’s first visit to the United States in nearly a decade, highlighted his growing diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo, who plays for the Saudi Pro League’s Al-Nassr, reportedly signed a two-year contract valued at $400 million, further cementing his lucrative association with the kingdom.
During the event, former President Donald Trump publicly praised Ronaldo, stating that he had introduced his son, Barron, to the player and believed the encounter had positively influenced the young boy. Trump’s remarks underscored the deepening link between the former president and the soccer star, despite Olbermann’s scathing public rebuke. Ronaldo has also expressed admiration for Trump, stating in an interview with Piers Morgan that the former president could play a role in shaping the world. This sentiment, however, has drawn mixed reactions, with some questioning the alignment of Ronaldo’s public statements with his personal and political affiliations.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of sports and politics, particularly as Ronaldo’s influence continues to grow both on and off the field. His participation in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, further amplifies his global visibility. Ronaldo, who will compete in his sixth World Cup, has stated that this will be his final appearance for Portugal, a decision that follows the team’s disappointing loss to Morocco in the previous tournament. Meanwhile, Trump’s involvement in FIFA and the preparations for the World Cup highlight the complex relationship between sports, politics, and international diplomacy. As Ronaldo’s career continues to evolve, the scrutiny of his public statements and associations remains a focal point for media and political observers.