Fans pray for Ronaldo’s safety following explosions in Saudi Arabia amid Iran war

The football world was shaken by reports of multiple loud explosions in Riyadh on Feb. 28, following a barrage of ballistic missile strikes launched by Iran in retaliation for the U.S. and Israel attack. The Saudi Arabian capital serves as the home base for several of the Saudi Pro League’s top clubs, including Ronaldo’s Al Nassr and Al Hilal, Al Shabab and Al Riyadh.

The news of the explosions immediately garnered widespread concerns among football supporters worldwide. On major social media platforms like X and Instagram, fans continuously sent their prayers and well-wishes to Ronaldo, as well as to Al Hilal’s new signing, Karim Benzema.

“Oh my God, I hope Ronaldo is okay. Someone please check on him,” one concerned account wrote.

Another user expressed: “Hopefully Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as the other players and the people, are safe. Let peace prevail.”

One fan added: “Please keep Ronaldo safe for me, I haven’t even met him yet.”

Escalation began on the morning of Feb. 28, when Israel and the U.S. launched the attack, while U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the military operation. The strikes hit military facilities and the residence of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed.

Following the attacks, Iran carried out a military operation called “True Promise 4” as a direct response.

According to Al Jazeerathe Saudi Foreign Ministry confirmed that Riyadh was among the intended targets. Crucially, however, Saudi officials stated that all incoming attacks directed at the capital were successfully intercepted and neutralized by the country’s defense systems.

The timing of this incident is sensitive, as the Saudi Pro League is entering a critical stage of the season. The unstable geopolitical situation naturally raises questions about the potential disruption or suspension of the league. However, as of now, Saudi authorities have confirmed that the attacks on the capital have been stopped.