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After making global headlines last summer with high-profile signings such as  Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar, Saudi Arabia's ambitious investment into its football league has seen a sharp decline in popularity just months into the new season.

While those blockbuster transfers initially captured worldwide attention, a comparative lack of subsequent big-name arrivals, coupled with reduced spending, has caused international interest to quickly subside as the new campaign unfolds.

Despite the investment frenzy in 2023, which saw a record $957 million (USD) spent on player transfers, the Saudi Pro League (SPL) has struggled to live up to its initial momentum  with fans and former players alike criticizing the league.

A number of high-profile stars openly expressed  regret over their moves, including former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, who cited personal reasons and a lack of competition.

It seems that even in the continued presence of Ronaldo, who remains at Al-Nassr, one of the top teams in Saudi Arabia, it still cannot draw periodic crowds, since average attendance has fallen way below the major leagues such as the English Premier League.

The format for Saudi Pro League fixtures has undergone frequent format  changes  since its commencement and has consistently failed to really carve out any identity for themselves that international viewers can identify themselves with.

Domestic interest has also been underwhelming, with only 144 people watching one match, despite stadiums that can hold tens of thousands of people, therefore questioning the long-term viability of the league.

Saudi Arabia's strategy on attracting aging stars to enhance its profile has drawn comparisons to past efforts by the Chinese Super League and Major League Soccer, both of which encountered similar challenges.

Additional  environmental factors, such as extreme heat, have only served to further hinder the league’s growth, as matches are often scheduled late to accommodate the blistering temperatures.

Despite attempts by the Public Investment Fund to privatize big clubs such as Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, the league has not as yet come up with a competitive and financially rewarding league to complement the top European footballing leagues.

Experts believe the Saudi league is at a point of stagnation, and for the SPL to have a different future, it must focus on grassroots development, domestic engagement, and competitive balance.

Only with a solid base of homegrown talent and football culture can the Saudi Pro League aim for long-term success, which also aligns with the wider goals of the country's Vision 2030.

Vision 2030 aims to emulate the success of leading European leagues, especially regarding the firm foundations that have been laid, including youth academies and investment in infrastructure.

However, success in football is not solely driven by financial excess, , and requires creating a competitive environment that can be accessed at all levels of play.

First and foremost, the SPL must strengthen  its domestic appeal if it is to realize its ambitions.

Football is already the most popular sport in Saudi Arabia, and with the success of the national team, who gained a 2-1 victory over Argentina in the 2022 World Cup, provides a good foundation to start off with.

In an effort to achieve long-term domestic and international support, the SPL is looking to invest in its local football culture and build a more competitive and engaging league.

By fostering a passionate local fan base, with a raising the standard of play, the SPL may attract younger, prime-age talent and establish itself as a global force in soccer.