Donald Trump recently hosted soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo at the White House. The meeting reportedly earned the former president significant respect from his youngest son, Barron.
Trump, 79, stated that Barron, 19, had the opportunity to meet the athlete. “I think he now respects his father a little more, simply because I introduced you to him,” Trump told the Associated Press.
Barron, the son of Trump and former first lady Melania Trump, is a “big fan” of the 40-year-old Ronaldo. The Portuguese forward is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Ronaldo has also expressed admiration for Trump. In a November 6 appearance on “Piers Morgan: Uncensored,” Ronaldo named Trump as someone who could contribute to his “main goal” of world peace.
“I would like to meet him one day and sit with him because he is one of the people I really appreciate,” Ronaldo said. “I think he can make things happen.”
When show host Piers Morgan noted Barron’s fandom, Ronaldo suggested a lighthearted debate. “Who is the most famous in the world: me or Donald Trump?” he mused.
Ronaldo believes he holds the global lead. He asserted that “no one is more famous than me in this generation in 2025” worldwide.
Ronaldo’s White House visit was part of a dinner honoring Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. No such debate between the two men took place.
Ronaldo currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Professional League. His contract is reportedly worth $200 million annually, and the Crown Prince chairs the Saudi sovereign fund that owns the club.
The football star’s career is nearing its end “soon.” He confirmed on November 11 at a tourism summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, that he is preparing for his sixth and final World Cup in 2026.
“I have been in the game for 25 years, I have done everything, I have many records,” Ronaldo stated. “So let’s enjoy the moment and live the present.”