The sports world was shocked Monday morning by news of Al-Hilal’s massive bid for Paris-Saint Germain forward Kylian Mbappé. The Saudi Arabian club bid $332 million for the 2018 World Cup champion, an astounding fee that underscored the kingdom’s vast oil wealth.
With Mbappé said to be in line for a $776 million salary should he elect to play out the remaining year of his contract in Riyadh, stars in other sports are taking notice with varying degrees of seriousness—including Lakers forward LeBron James.
“Me headed to Saudi (Arabia) when they call (Rich Paul) and (Maverick Carter) for that 1-year deal!” James tweeted alongside a GIF of the titular character from Forrest Gump running at full speed.
Me headed to Saudi when they call @RichPaul4 & @mavcarter for that 1 year deal! ✌🏾🤷🏾♂️😁 pic.twitter.com/IX0VSMZYNb
— LeBron James (@KingJames) July 25, 2023
Saudi Arabia’s investments in sports have made headlines around the world in recent years, spanning golf, soccer, auto racing among other endeavors. However, they have also attracted criticism on account of the nation’s poor human rights record.
James’s tweet, though seemingly in jest, foregrounded a legitimate concern in basketball circles. The King, after mulling retirement, has announced plans to return to Los Angeles in 2024.
