With the conclusion of the Founding Day Round (Round 21) of the 2023-2024 Saudi Professional League, the race for the top scorer title has intensified, becoming one of the most prominent aspects of this season's competition, which is enjoying unprecedented global attention. Leading this race are two international stars: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, captain of Al-Nassr, and Aleksandar Mitrović of Serbia, striker for Al-Hilal, both of whom continue to find the net regularly, reaffirming their immense talent.
Historical background and context of the current competition
The Saudi Professional League has undergone a radical transformation in the past two years, beginning with Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr in late 2012, which paved the way for the influx of some of the world's brightest football stars. This transformation has not only raised the league's technical level but has also intensified competition for individual awards, most notably the Golden Boot for top scorer. While in previous seasons the competition was limited to certain names like Abderrazak Hamdallah and Omar Al-Somah, the race now includes world-class players, giving the award an international dimension and increased prestige.
The importance of the race and its expected impact
The importance of the top scorer race extends far beyond being an individual achievement for the player; its impact encompasses several aspects. Locally , this competition fuels the traditional rivalry between the major clubs, particularly Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, and intensifies the enthusiasm and passion of the fans. Regionally and internationally , it highlights the strength and appeal of the Saudi Professional League, as the competition between names of the caliber of Ronaldo and Mitrovic for the top scorer title attracts the attention of global media and fans from around the world, thus enhancing the Saudi league's brand and contributing to the realization of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals in the sports sector.
Top scorers after the Founding Day round
After scoring against Al-Fateh, Cristiano Ronaldo strengthened his position at the top of the scoring charts, while Aleksandar Mitrovic continued his pursuit with a brace against Al-Raed. Several other players are trailing them significantly behind, delivering outstanding performances. Below is the table of top scorers up to the end of matchday 21:
- 21 goals: Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr)
- 19 goals: Aleksandar Mitrovic (Al-Hilal)
- 15 goals: Georges Kevin Nkoudou (Damac)
- 13 goals: Anderson Talisca (Al-Nasr)
- 13 goals: Abderrazak Hamdallah (Al-Ittihad)
- 11 goals: Firas Al-Buraikan (Al-Ahli)
