CRISTIANO RONALDO was praised for his “unreal sportsmanship” after he remarkably told the referee he was NOT fouled when winning a penalty.
The Al-Nassr forward, 38, went down in the second minute of his side’s AFC Champions League clash with Iranian side Persepolis.
Cristiano Ronaldo went down under a challenge from a Persepolis defender
Ronaldo wagged his finger following the penalty being awarded
He remarkably walked over towards the referee to try and overturn the decision
Ronaldo told the official it was not a spot-kick
He could be seen saying ‘no pen’ to the referee
The audience were astonished by the scenes that transpired when the referee quickly pointed to the location.
The legend of Manchester United, Ronaldo, instantly waved his finger, saying he didn’t think it was a spot kick.
He then proceeded to walk over to the official and could be seen saying “no pen”.
A VAR check followed and the penalty decision was overturned.
But Ronaldo’s actions were not forgotten by viewers as they hailed his behaviour.
One said: “This is why he’s my goat”
Another added: “Unreal sportsmanship.”
A third replied: “Respect!!! This guy is winning me over on a daily basis.”
While a fourth responded: “What a man! This is the kind of mentality that separates him. Ronaldo is the best both in attitude and character.
“Rarely do you see Ronaldo fighting with the young stars demanding unnecessary respect and honour. Respect is earned. Thank you for demonstrating honesty and morality. You are the authentic GOAT😊.”
And a fifth said: “Wow!! Just wow. A true athlete.”
But Ronaldo may have regretted his sporting gesture later in the game as Al-Nassr failed to break down the visitors as they played out a goalless draw.
The legendary Ronaldo of Real Madrid has played in 18 games this season, scoring 18 goals and dishing out nine assists.
However, they are currently four points behind Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League standings.
In 1997, Robbie Fowler objected to a penalty given to Liverpool against Arsenal, but the referee’s ruling held.