Cristiano Ronaldo attends formal gathering at the White House
Cristiano Ronaldo attended a formal White House gathering on Tuesday evening, where he was pictured laughing alongside Donald Trump, reports BritPanorama.
Footage released by the White House showed the pair walking together, accompanied by Ronaldo’s partner, Georgina Rodriguez. Officials labelled them “Two GOATS” in a social media post.
The American president and the football icon spent time together before the formal proceedings, strolling through the Presidential Walk of Fame. This visit marked Ronaldo’s first public appearance in America since facing sexual assault accusations in 2017.
The Portuguese striker joined Saudi Arabia’s official party at the black-tie reception hosted by President Trump. Ronaldo has consistently rejected claims made by former educator Kathryn Mayorga, who alleged an incident occurred at a Las Vegas hotel in 2009. A US court dismissed the case in 2022 after finding that Mayorga’s legal representative had improperly used documents obtained in violation of the law.
Since the accusations emerged in the German media outlet Der Spiegel in 2017, Ronaldo has avoided participation in American exhibitions or pre-season matches while representing Real Madrid, Juventus, Manchester United, and his current Saudi club.
During his address to guests, Trump acknowledged Ronaldo’s presence, revealing how meeting the footballer had impressed his youngest son. “Barron got to meet him and I think he respects his father a little bit more now – just the fact that I introduced you,” Trump told the assembled dignitaries.
The President’s remarks underscored his son’s enthusiasm for football, whilst thanking Ronaldo for enhancing his standing in Barron’s eyes through their introduction. The East Room gathering brought together prominent figures from various sectors, including technology, business, and sport.
Among notable attendees were Tesla chief executive Elon Musk, Vice President JD Vance, Donald Trump Jr., Secretary of State Marco Rubio, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Apple’s Tim Cook. Technology entrepreneur David Sacks shared a group photograph from the evening, captured by Ronaldo himself, which included Sacks, Musk, FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Rodriguez, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
The Saudi delegation’s visit represented Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s first American trip since US intelligence services linked him to journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s killing at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Trump dismissed questions about the matter during an Oval Office meeting earlier that day, asserting that the Crown Prince “knew nothing about it.”
Ronaldo’s appearance in America carries particular significance with the 2026 World Cup approaching, as most matches will take place in the United States. Portugal secured their tournament qualification on Sunday and has arranged a March exhibition match against the US team in Atlanta.
Previously, Ronaldo had attempted to establish contact with Trump, sending a signed Portugal shirt in July through Portuguese European Council president Antonio Costa with the message “To president Donald J. Trump, Playing for Peace.” Speaking to Piers Morgan last week, Ronaldo expressed admiration for Trump’s diplomatic capabilities, stating, “He is one of the guys who can help to change the world,” and indicated a desire for a future meeting.
The late-night atmosphere was undoubtedly lively, yet the blend of global celebrity and politics serves as a reminder of the intricate and often unpredictable dance between influence and image. Such encounters are not just about sport; they reflect the complex intersections of power, culture, and the public gaze. In a world seeking clarity, these moments complicate the narratives we hold dear.
