Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the global ambassador for the Esports World Cup 2025, a move set to significantly boost the profile of the largest esports event in history. This partnership highlights the growing convergence of traditional sports and the rapidly expanding world of competitive gaming, aiming to inspire a new generation of players and fans.
Ronaldo Joins Esports World Cup as Global Ambassador
The Esports World Cup Foundation officially announced that Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned Portuguese footballer and star of Saudi club Al Nassr, will serve as the global ambassador for the Esports World Cup 2025. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Riyadh from July 7 to August 24, 2025. This appointment is seen as a strategic step to solidify Saudi Arabia's leadership in the burgeoning esports sector.
Key Takeaways
Global Impact: Ronaldo's involvement is expected to significantly elevate the tournament's global reach and appeal, attracting new audiences to esports.
Bridging Worlds: The partnership aims to connect traditional sports with the esports industry, leveraging Ronaldo's immense influence.
Virtual Presence: Ronaldo will appear as a virtual character in "Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves," one of the 25 main tournaments.
Inspiring Generations: Both Ronaldo and the Esports World Cup Foundation emphasize inspiring new generations through dedication and excellence.
Massive Scale: The 2025 event will feature over 2,000 professional players, 200 clubs from more than 100 countries, competing across 25 tournaments and 24 games for a prize pool exceeding $70 million.
A Strategic Partnership for Growth
Ralph Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, lauded Ronaldo as a global sports legend whose professional mindset and pursuit of excellence perfectly embody the spirit of the Esports World Cup. Reichert stated that Ronaldo's participation will be instrumental in linking traditional sports with esports and inspiring future players. This collaboration is anticipated to have a substantial positive impact on the global growth of esports.
Ronaldo's Role and Vision
As a global ambassador, Ronaldo will lead the tournament's worldwide campaign and participate in key events during the seven-week spectacle at Boulevard City in Riyadh. His virtual appearance in "Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves" is designed to attract new fans and introduce them to professional esports players, leveraging his social media following of over a billion.
Ronaldo expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, "Sport is constantly evolving, and esports represents the future of the global sports and entertainment sectors. The passion, talent, and determination I see in esports players mirror my own journey on the field." He emphasized his pleasure in supporting these competitors and participating in an event that inspires new generations.
"Rise Above" and Legacy
Ronaldo's involvement will also highlight the tournament's official creative slogan, "Rise Above," which celebrates human potential, talent, and the pursuit of excellence—values that Ronaldo himself embodies. His connection to the tournament dates back to its inception, having been a prominent figure in its global launch in 2023 and attending the closing ceremony of the inaugural 2024 event, where Saudi team "Falcons" won the club championship. His extensive engagement on social media has already contributed to the widespread dissemination of the Esports World Cup's message and vision.
The Esports World Cup 2025: A Global Spectacle
The second edition of the Esports World Cup is set to unite players and fans worldwide in an unprecedented event. The multi-game and multi-platform format provides opportunities for clubs and players to showcase their skills across diverse competitions. With a prize pool exceeding $70 million, the 2025 tournament reaffirms Saudi Arabia's commitment to hosting major global events and establishing itself at the forefront of the esports industry.