Cristiano Ronaldo scores penalty and then asks referee to sign hat-trick ball

Cristiano Ronaldo asked referee Sultan Al-Harbi to sign his hat-trick match ball after the Al Nassr forward scored all four goals in their Saudi Pro League clash against Al Wehda.

The 38-year-old, who became the world's highest paid athlete when he joined the Saudi club, proved his potency in front of goal on Thursday night with a sublime display of finishing.

He opened his account at the King Abdulaziz Stadium with a powerful effort in the 21st minute before netting a second shortly before half-time.

Then, after referee Al-Harbi awarded Al Nassr a penalty for handball, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner converted from the spot to complete his 61st career hat-trick.

Shortly after the hour mark, those inside the 38,000 capacity stadium produced their loudest SUI of the evening when Ronaldo scored his fourth and final goal of the game.

It was a memorable night for the former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward, who also reached the milestone of 500 career league goals.

And after the full-time whistle, the Al Nassr captain wanted to commemorate his achievement by getting the referee to pen his signature on the match ball.

He'll most likely keep this one, unlike his 60th hat-trick ball that belongs to former Manchester United teammate Alejandro Garnacho.

Ronaldo has awarded the captaincy on a permanent basis shortly after signing his £175 million-a-year deal with Al Nassr.

In fact, since defender Abdullah Madu lost the privilege of being skipper, the 38-year-old has worn the armband in each of his three appearances for the club.

Al Nassr midfielder Jaloliddin Masharipov has recently opened up on how the squad reacted to Ronaldo being named captain straight from the off.

"It'd be a little strange if the rest of the players are captaining Ronaldo," the Uzbekistan international told Sports.ru.

"We expected it. Our former captain willingly handed over the armband [to Cristiano Ronaldo] without any problems. I think this is the best solution. It cannot be otherwise."

Masharipov also played down claims that the Portugal's all-time top scorer is getting special treatment.

"When [Cristiano] Ronaldo arrived, many people spread rumours about my departure from the team, all kinds of false news came out," the 29-year-old said.

"Before Cristiano’s arrival, many people asked me, ‘Will you give him the No. 7?’ How can you not give it?! He is Cristiano Ronaldo!” Such players should always be respected! After giving my number, many people assumed that I would leave the team. I gave my number without any problem. There was no talk of leaving. Both the club and the coach wanted to see me in the team.

"I have a contract with the team. I only changed my number because Ronaldo came. This guy is one of the two best players in the world. There’s no need to talk much.”