US President Donald Trump on Thursday shared an AI-generated video of himself playing soccer with Cristiano Ronaldo at the White House.
“Ronaldo is a great guy. It was a pleasure meeting him at the White House. He’s really smart and cool,” President Trump said in an Instagram post.
The video was posted on Tuesday after the Portuguese soccer player attended a lavish dinner with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed.
The soccer star was seated near the front of the east room — not far from where the president and crown prince gave speeches.
President Trump emphasized in his speech that he had introduced Ronaldo to his teenage son.
Meanwhile, several social media users commented on the video, with some calling it the best use of technology.
“Brother, I know it was Ronaldo’s idea but I can’t prove it,” the user said.
Another said: “Best ever (x2) for using technology properly.”
One user commented: “The haters will say it’s fake.”
Some users commented that although the video is clearly AI, it is very realistic.
“Before GTA VI, there was AI Trump vs. Ronaldo.”
Trump also presented Ronald with a symbolic gold key and invited him to the White House.
“Mr. President, thank you for the invitation and the warm welcome from me and the First Lady. Me and my future wife, @georginagio. Each of us has something meaningful to give. I am ready to play my part as we inspire new generations to build a future defined by courage, responsibility, and lasting peace,” the footballer said in a post on Instagram.
Wednesday’s visit was a rare visit to the United States for Ronaldo, who has not played in the country since 2014.
Ronaldo has been the face of the Saudi Football League since joining Saudi club Al Nasr at the end of 2022 in a deal reportedly worth $200 million a year.
world cup connection
Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup after FIFA and President Gianni Infantino instituted a fast-track bidding process two years ago to avoid competitive bidding.
When Saudi Arabia’s victory was confirmed last December, Ronaldo promoted the bid, saying, “Based on what I’ve seen so far, I’m confident that 2034 will be the best World Cup in history.”
Ronaldo will play in a record sixth World Cup next year after Portugal qualified on Sunday for the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
