The Middle Eastern nation has been confirmed by FIFA as the host nation of the 2034 tournament and the football legend - who plies his trade in the country for Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr - issued a gushing social media video in support of the decision.

Ronaldo said in the clip: "2034 will be the best World Cup ever. It's amazing! The infrastructure, the stadiums, the conditions for the fans and everything and after what I see, I'm more convinced that 2034 will be the best World Cup ever.

"One or two of these kids that I will be together with today will play in the World Cup. I believe that they will continue to grow, especially the women as well, that they grow very well too. We have to grow together in everything. Not only in football but in life and I will motivate them to work hard, believe in that."

Ronaldo is the biggest star in the Saudi Pro League after he joined Al-Nassr from Manchester United in 2023 and spoke in glowing terms about how football in the country has improved in the time since his arrival.

The Portuguese international said: "The league has grown so fast in the last year. If you see the difference, it's amazing. You have like seven or eight big clubs right now in the league that are very difficult to beat. The evolution of the players, for example, my teammates and the other teams too, that Saudis grow so fast and are becoming better players.

"The country is unbelievable. The Saudis are very good people. Every year, they do big events, football matches, boxing - entertainment is very high. The future is very bright in my opinion. And I am happy to be part of the success of this country and I will be here for sure to see the World Cup."