Ronaldo breaks the silence and apologizes for the rude gesture that led to a ban and fine

CRISTIANO RONALDO has finally apologized for a rude gesture towards fans.

The Al Nassr hero was banned for one match and fined £6,3000 for an arm signal in response to ‘Messi’ taunts from Al Shabab supporters last month.

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The 39-year-old legend has spoken out and claimed his action was ‘very normal’ in Europe – but has vowed not to do it again in Saudi Arabia.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker, who earns £170million a year, blames his behavior on the ‘passion’ of football.

The Portuguese star told a press conference: “I will always respect the cultures of all countries, as I have respected to this day, but not always what people see is reality.

“As I said and I will say it again: it is clear that I will not do it again in this country, but in Europe it is very normal.

“Sometimes the passion and excitement of the game causes us to make mistakes.”

Ronaldo’s hand gesture came at the end of a 3-2 Saudi Pro League win over Al Shabab in which he struck a penalty opener.

Home fans had chanted “Messi Messi” at him, which led to Ron making an X-rated move.

His resulting suspension meant he missed a 4–4 draw against Al Hazm four days later on 29 February.

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Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr remains second, 12 points behind leaders Al-Hilal.

They face Al-Ain in the quarter-finals of the Asian Champions League on Monday

The UAE side led 1-0 from the first leg but Ronaldo has delivered a glittering message ahead of the second leg.

He said: “We will not spare a drop of sweat for the fans of Al Nassr. Tomorrow, remontada!”

The latter word is Spanish for fighting back and is often used in sports.