Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from Al-Nassr’s recent AFC Champions League fixture against Esteghlal was not due to legal concerns in Iran, the Iranian embassy has confirmed, dismissing reports suggesting the football icon faced 99 lashes for alleged adultery.
The Portuguese superstar did not travel to Tehran for Monday’s match, having also missed Al-Nassr’s earlier clash against Persepolis last month. Speculation arose linking his absence to a 2023 interaction with disabled Iranian artist Fatima Hamami, during which Ronaldo greeted her with a hug and a kiss—an act allegedly in violation of Iranian laws regarding physical contact with married women.
However, the Iranian embassy has categorically denied any legal proceedings against the 40-year-old athlete.
“We strongly deny the issuance of any court ruling against any international athlete in Iran,” an embassy spokesperson told talkSPORT. “His sincere and humane meeting with Fatima Hamami was praised and admired by both the people and the country’s sports authorities.”
Reports from Saudi Arabia indicate that Ronaldo’s absence was instead due to muscle fatigue, rather than any legal issues.
Hamami, an artist who paints with her feet, also defended Ronaldo, emphasizing the respectfulness of their encounter. She had presented the footballer with a portrait, and in return, he gifted her one of his jerseys.
“Unemployed lawyers made accusations against him without my or my family’s permission,” she said in 2023. “In Iran, he has committed a crime for hugging me, while we have never had any complaints… I am very grateful to Ronaldo for his kindness. I hope the best for him in life and football.”
She further clarified that Ronaldo was unaware of Iranian laws at the time and that his actions were purely out of affection and respect.
Despite the controversy, Ronaldo remains a beloved figure globally, with his absence from Al-Nassr’s crucial continental clash now officially attributed to fitness concerns rather than legal troubles.
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