RIYADH: Star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo who shocked the world with his huge deal with Al Nassr estimated at 200 million euros ($211m), claimed that he had many offers from all over the world including Europe.

Ronaldo arrived here ahead of his stint with Saudi Arabia’s club Al Nassr and came up with a major revelation by sharing that he turned down a swathe of offers from Europe and elsewhere, in a bid to be part of success of the country and culture.

“In Europe, my work is done,” he said, adding: “I had many offers in Europe, many in Brazil, Australia, the US, even in Portugal.

“Many clubs tried to sign me but I gave my word to this club, for the opportunity to have not only football but (to be) part of this amazing country. And for me it was a challenge,” he added.

The Portuguese forward then described himself as a “unique” player and insisted his career is not over yet and is optimistic to break a few records here as he did in Europe.

“I’m a unique player. It’s good to come here, I broke all the records there (in Europe) and I want to break a few records here,” Ronaldo concluded.

It is apropos to mention that Ronaldo’s signing with Al Nassr until June 2025 is just the latest foray into top-level sports by oil-rich Saudi Arabia, which has moved into Formula One, boxing and golf, and snapped up English club Newcastle United.

READ: Mavi shines on debut as India edge Sri Lanka in a last-ball thriller