Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has presented a signed national team jersey to former US President Donald Trump, bearing a personal message that reads “Playing for Peace”.
The symbolic gesture was made during the G7 Summit currently underway in Alberta, where world leaders have convened to discuss pressing global issues, including the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.
The jersey was handed over to Trump by Portugal’s former Prime Minister António Costa, who attended the summit as a special guest. Costa, a long-time ally of Ronaldo, is said to have maintained close relations with the footballer over the years and reportedly played a role in facilitating the gift.
Ronaldo, who currently plays for Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr FC, remains one of football’s most influential figures both on and off the pitch. The gesture comes at a time of heightened global instability, and observers view the message as a symbolic call for unity and diplomacy.
“Playing for peace” — the words inscribed on the shirt — have been interpreted as an appeal from the five-time Ballon d’Or winner to focus on harmony and shared humanity. Analysts noted that such a message, coming from a globally recognised athlete, underscores the unifying power of sports at a time of political and economic fragmentation.
Trump, who has remained active in international affairs and recently increased his public engagements ahead of the US presidential election, was seen engaged in discussions with various leaders during the summit. His interaction with Costa drew media attention, particularly due to the presentation of the jersey.
This is not the first time Ronaldo has engaged in symbolic gestures related to diplomacy or humanitarian causes. In the past, he has donated millions to hospitals, contributed to disaster relief efforts, and voiced support for children in war-torn regions.
While Ronaldo’s future at Al Nassr has come under speculation — with reports of offers from clubs competing in the FIFA Club World Cup — he has reportedly declined those proposals. Sources close to the player suggest that he may be considering a contract extension with the Saudi side, signalling his intent to remain in the Middle East.
The G7 Summit, though not traditionally a platform for sporting diplomacy, has seen occasional cultural and political statements in past years. This latest episode, involving a figure of Ronaldo’s stature, marks yet another intersection between global politics and sports.
Diplomatic observers say that such gestures, while symbolic, can often resonate deeply with public sentiment and serve to humanise international dialogue.
