‘My son is a big fan’ - US President Trump claims his son respects him more after meeting Ronaldo

The 40-year-old is set to appear in a record sixth World Cup tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Portugal secured their spot by winning their qualifying group, although their path was not without drama.

Ronaldo was absent for the final game, which they won 9-1 after he was sent off against Ireland for his first international red card.

The Portuguese forward, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, having joined the club on a free transfer in December 2022, met with the US President and his son.

Upon meeting the football icon, President Trump quipped about his son's admiration for the star. 

"My son is a big fan of @Cristiano... Barron got to meet him and I think he respects his father a little bit more now," Trump said. 

The visit marked the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s first trip to the United States in nearly a decade.

Ronaldo was reportedly at the White House as part of a Saudi delegation led by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. 

The meeting comes as Ronaldo and the Portuguese national team celebrate their qualification for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ronaldo had a productive qualifying campaign, scoring five goals in five appearances. His contributions helped him become the all-time leading scorer in World Cup qualifying history with 41 goals, surpassing the previous record of 39 held by Carlos Ruiz of Guatemala.