Cristiano Ronaldo "honoured" to discuss eSports future with Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo expressed excitement after meeting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday to discuss the future of eSports.

The two met during a ceremony where plans for the first-ever eSports World Cup in Saudi Arabia next year were announced.

"An honour to meet again with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman and great to be part of this panel today discussing the future of esports and the launch of the first-ever #esportsworldcup that will be held in Saudi Arabia next year!" Ronaldo wrote on Twitter.

The Portuguese striker, who is currently signed by Saudi club Al Nassr, was one of several sports figures invited to take part in the panel discussion led by the Crown Prince.

Esports, or competitive video gaming, has exploded in popularity in recent years and its market in 2021, was projected to grow to $2.5 billion by 2022.

Saudi Arabia is hoping to capitalize on this growth and establish itself as a hub for esports in the Middle East.

The kingdom has invested heavily in sports as part of Crown Prince Mohammed's Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy.