Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo controls a ball during the Portugal’s official training on the eve of the group H World Cup soccer match between Portugal and Ghana at the Al Shahaniya SC training site in Al Shahaniya, Qatar, Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)
Ronaldo’s Future Sparks MLS and Hollywood Speculation
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to dominate headlines, even as his legendary playing career moves into its later stages. The global superstar remains one of the most marketable athletes in sports history. Now, sport finance experts believe the Portuguese icon could still make a dramatic career pivot. A potential move to Major League Soccer, followed by a transition into Hollywood, has emerged as a fascinating possibility.
Dr. Rob Wilson, Professor of Applied Sport Finance and Head of Executive Education at UCFB, believes Ronaldo still holds strong commercial appeal. However, Wilson noted that timing plays a critical role in any potential move to the United States. Ronaldo, now in his 40s, continues to chase success on the field. That commitment could shape his next decision.
MLS Opportunities Still Carry Global Appeal
Wilson explained that a move to MLS would have created greater commercial impact if Ronaldo pursued it several years ago. Still, the opportunity remains attractive. Clubs like LA Galaxy, Los Angeles FC, and San Diego FC would immediately benefit from Ronaldo’s global brand power. The 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America could also add excitement around a possible transfer.
“If he was looking at this two or three years ago, the potential would have been higher for him,” Wilson, who spoke to Sports Talk Media for Action Network, said. “Now he’s into his 40s, he is really clinging on to his playing career. Of course, the fact that the World Cup is over there next probably adds a little bit of space to any attraction for Ronaldo.”
MLS continues to attract global stars who want to expand their brand while playing in a growing soccer market. Ronaldo’s arrival would instantly elevate league exposure and ticket demand. His rivalry with Lionel Messi, who already plays in MLS, would generate enormous international attention.
Saudi Arabia Provides Stability and Brand Strength
Despite MLS intrigue, Wilson believes Ronaldo’s deep ties to Saudi Arabia make a move complicated. Saudi investment in Ronaldo strengthened both his personal brand and the country’s global sports ambitions. Leaving that environment could risk damaging his reputation in the Middle East.
“I just think he’s so embedded in Saudi Arabia now,” Wilson said. “If he tried to engineer that sort of move and it failed, he would lose his brand recognition in the Middle East because they’d see him as only being out for the money.”
Wilson also pointed out that Saudi Arabia views Ronaldo as a central figure in its sports development strategy. That level of commitment gives Ronaldo stability and long-term business opportunities that MLS might struggle to match.
Hollywood Could Offer Ronaldo a New Stage
Wilson suggested Ronaldo’s long-term future might extend beyond soccer entirely. He believes entertainment and film could present a lucrative next chapter. Ronaldo’s global popularity, physical presence, and media savvy create natural crossover potential.
“It would be different if Ronaldo could get into Hollywood,” Wilson said. “He’s certainly pretty enough and iconic global movie and entertainment stars earn plenty more than sports stars.”
Wilson even outlined a unique scenario. Ronaldo could sign with a California-based MLS club, perform briefly on the field, and then transition into entertainment projects. “Ronaldo is a smart guy,” Wilson added. “If he could make a move out to California, score a few goals for San Diego and then transition into starring in Hollywood blockbusters, that would be a reason to leave Saudi Arabia for the States.”
For now, Ronaldo continues to balance legacy, brand growth, and global influence as he considers his next move.
