Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Al Nassr AFC Champions League clash against Esteghlal FC on March 3, 2025, sparking speculation. Reports suggested he could face 99 lashes in Iran for a 2023 incident involving a public gesture towards an Iranian artist. However, the Iranian Embassy denied any legal action. Officially, Al Nassr cited muscle fatigue as the reason for Ronaldo absence.
For the AFC Champions League Round of 16, Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from Al Nassr’s squad against Esteghlal FC on March 3, 2025, sparked widespread speculation. Reports suggested that Ronaldo missed the Iran trip due to legal concerns, particularly rumors about a 99-lash punishment under Iranian law for alleged “adultery” stemming from his 2023 visit to the country.
During that trip, Ronaldo met Fatemeh Hammami Nasrabadi, a disabled Iranian artist, and kissed her forehead in a heartfelt moment. While widely praised, some reports suggested this act violated Iranian laws regarding physical contact between unmarried individuals. However, the Iranian Embassy denied these allegations, stating no legal case was ever filed against Ronaldo.
Despite the official explanation citing muscle fatigue, Ronaldo’s 25 goals in 30 matches this season prove he remains in peak form. Meanwhile, security concerns for Ronaldo and his family have emerged, with reports indicating they have received serious threats, prompting police intervention. Al Nassr’s match against Esteghlal ended in a 0-0 draw, leaving their fate undecided for the second leg. With speculation surrounding Ronaldo’s absence, his next appearance for Al Nassr will be closely watched by fans and media alike.
