Al-Nassr's Cristiano Ronaldo banned for response to Lionel Messi chants

The 39-year-old was pictured celebrating a goal scored in Al-Nassr's 3-2 win away against Al Shabab last Sunday by pumping his hands forward in front of his pelvic area in response to sections of the crowd chanting Messi's name.

Ronaldo's celebration was not captured by local broadcasting channels but it was later uploaded to social media, which led to Al Shabab filing a complaint, according to Saudi Arabian news outlet Arriyadiyah.

Following a review by the SAFF, Ronaldo is said to have violated Article 57-1 of the Disciplinary and Ethics Regulations and has subsequently been handed a one-match suspension, which was served on Wednesday as he watched on from the stands during Al-Nassr's 4-4 draw with Al-Hazm.

Ronaldo must also pay a fine of 30,000 Saudi Riyals (£6,300) for his gesture that was deemed to have 'provoked' supporters in the stadium.

As quoted by The Mirror, the article states: «Any person who causes public excitement by action, word, or gesture during any match shall be suspended for one match, and shall be punished with a fine of 10,000 riyals.»

A spokesperson, via The Guardian, said: «The disciplinary and ethics committee at the Saudi Arabian Football Federation has issued a one-match ban to Cristiano Ronaldo as well as a 10,000 Saudi Riyal [£2,100] fine to Saff and 20,000 SAR fine payable to the opposition club Al-Shabab FC for 'provoking fans' or 'inciting fans' as per article 57 of the disciplinary and ethics committee at the Saudi Arabian Football Federation.»

Although Ronaldo has denied suggestions that he has performed a 'disgraceful'