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Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the whereabouts of football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, amidst escalating tensions across the Middle East. It was reported on Tuesday that the 41-year-old's private jet departed Saudi Arabia on Monday night, though the Press Associationunderstands Ronaldo remains in the country.
This comes as Saudi Arabia, along with other Gulf states hosting United States military bases on their soil, has faced retaliatory strikes from Iran. These actions are understood to be in response to a joint US and Israeli assault launched on Saturday, intensifying fears of a wider regional conflict.
Despite heightened security concerns in the region, Saudi Pro League fixtures, including Ronaldo’s Al Nassr side hosting Neom in Riyadh on Saturday, are currently scheduled to proceed as planned. Riyadh itself reportedly saw Iranian drones strike the US Embassy earlier this week, highlighting the volatile situation and the direct impact on the capital.
The regional instability has already impacted other sporting events. In the United Arab Emirates, another nation targeted by Iran, players at an ATP Challenger tennis tournament were forced to evacuate the court after a drone attack on a nearby oil terminal.
The ATP later confirmed the suspension of play at the Fujairah Challenger due to a security alert. An ATP spokesperson stated: "In line with established security protocols, play was immediately halted and players, officials and staff were directed to designated safe areas.
The health, safety and well-being of our players, staff and tournament personnel is our priority. Following consultation with local authorities and security advisors, play has been cancelled for the remainder of the day as a precautionary measure. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as appropriate."
Further reflecting the regional unrest, Iran’s women’s football team notably refrained from singing their national anthem during their Asian Cup match against South Korea in Australia on Monday, which they lost 3-0. They are set to play the hosts in their second group match on Thursday.