Despite opening the scoring with a penalty in the 21st minute, Al Nassr relied on late goals from Brazilian Talisca, who netted twice, to secure the win just four minutes before the final whistle.
After the game, videos circulated on social media showing Ronaldo cupping his ear and making repetitive hand gestures near his pelvic area, seemingly aimed at the opposing Al Shabab fans.
In the background, chants of “Messi” were audible, alluding to Ronaldo’s perennial football rival from Argentina.
While the incident wasn’t captured by television cameras, some Saudi commentators suggested that Ronaldo should face consequences for his actions.
Though there has been no official statement, Saudi newspaper Asharq al-Awsat reported that the national football federation (SAFF) had initiated an investigation into the matter.
“The disciplinary committee is facing the biggest test. We will wait and see,” Waleed Al Farraj, a prominent Saudi writer and television host, said on social media platform X.
“Everything has its limits, no matter how famous you are. This is how the major leagues are.”
Al Nassr could not be reached for immediate comment.
The 39-year-old Ronaldo has previously faced similar backlash. In April of last year, during a league match against Al Hilal which Al Nassr lost 2-0, he was seen appearing to grab his genitals while heading towards the dugout after the game.
Earlier this month, during the Riyadh Season Cup final where Al Nassr also lost 2-0 to Al Hilal, Ronaldo grabbed an Al Hilal scarf thrown at him from the stands, briefly placed it in his shorts, and then discarded it as he made his way towards the tunnel.
Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr as a free agent in late 2022, currently leads the Saudi league‘s scoring charts with 22 goals in 20 appearances this season.
Al Nassr hold the second position in the table with 52 points, trailing Al Hilal by four points, with Al Hilal having a game in hand.
(With Reuters inputs)