Ronaldo, Musk Steal the Spotlight at Trump’s Lavish Dinner for Saudi Crown Prince

Two global icons, football legend Cristiano Ronaldo and tech titan Elon Musk, emerged as the most talked-about personalities during a high-profile dinner hosted by US President Donald Trump in honour of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday.

A VIP Seat for Football Royalty

Ronaldo, currently playing for Saudi club Al Nassr, arrived moments before Trump and the crown prince, taking an enviable seat near the head of the long banquet table. The 40-year-old striker — whose time in the Saudi Pro League is nearing its end as his contract expires this summer — was greeted with admiration and curiosity as guests whispered about his future in the sport.

Trump couldn’t resist sharing a personal moment.

“My son is a big fan of Ronaldo,” he announced proudly, revealing that 19-year-old Barron finally met his football hero. I think he respects his father a little bit more now… just because I introduced you,” Trump joked, drawing laughter across the hall."

Elon Musk Joins the Power Circle

Adding more sparkle to the guest list was Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO behind Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter). Musk’s presence fuelled speculation about US-Saudi discussions on future tech collaborations, space partnerships, and the kingdom’s megaprojects.

While Musk kept a low profile, cameras caught several moments of animated conversation between him, Trump, and senior Saudi delegates.

Football Meets Politics

It wasn’t just Ronaldo representing the world of sport. FIFA president Gianni Infantino also attended, marking yet another visit to the White House ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the US will co-host. His recurring appearances have strengthened speculation about expanded cooperation between world football bodies and the US administration.

A Night of Glamour 

The dinner, blending celebrities, business moguls, and political heavyweights, highlighted the deepening — and sometimes controversial — ties between Washington and Riyadh.

But for many observers, it was the unexpected pairing of Cristiano Ronaldo and Elon Musk that truly defined the night, overshadowing even the diplomatic spotlight.