Cristiano Ronaldo Releases Statement on Gesture That Could Earn Him Ban

• Cristiano Ronaldo came under fire for his crude gesture aimed at Al-Shabab fans
• The forward clashed with the supporters after they taunted him with Messi chants
• It was recently claimed that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner could be banned

Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence on his controversial gesture during a recent match that could earn him a ban.

The veteran striker was in action for Al-Nassr during their SPL clash against Al-Shabab on Sunday, February 25.

The match ended in a 3-2 win for Ronaldo's side, with Talisca scoring the winner with four minutes left on the clock.

However, a moment involving the 39-year-old and Al-Shabab fans became a huge talking point after the full-time whistle.

According to talkSPORT, the Portuguese star celebrated wildly after his side secured victory with a last-gasp winner.

Cristiano Ronaldo jets out in style to new club Al-Nassr

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He appeared to taunt rival fans with a crude gesture during the celebration, with his antics earning him condemnation from some quarters.

Ronaldo's gesture was seemingly a response to the fans' jeers throughout the match and Lionel Messi chants directed at him.

As a result, reports claim the former Manchester United star is facing a possibility, although nothing has been confirmed.

Ronaldo speaks on his gesture

The 39-year-old has also made a statement on his gesture in the wake of the ban reports.

In a statement via Saudi outlet Al-Riyadiya, the Al-Nassr star defended his actions and said:

"I respect all clubs. And the joy after the shot expresses strength and victory, and it is not shameful. We are used to it in Europe."

Ronaldo is expected to be back in action on Thursday night when Al-Nassr will take on bottom-placed Al-Hazm in the SPL.

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Fans call out Ronaldo for crude gesture

In related news, Sports Brief reported that football fans have voiced their criticism on social media regarding Cristiano Ronaldo's response to chants of 'Messi' from the crowd.

Many observers have deemed Ronaldo's reaction unnecessary and unprofessional, arguing that he should have kept his focus on the game and not allowed the chants to disrupt him.