Iran Denies Reports of 99 Lashes for Ronaldo Over Adultery
By Kwedu News
Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from Al-Nassr’s recent clash against Iranian side Esteghlal was not due to allegations that he would face 99 lashes for adultery, according to a statement from Iran’s Embassy.
The Portuguese star missed the Asian Champions League fixture in Tehran on Monday, following his previous absence from Al-Nassr’s match against Persepolis, also based in Tehran, last month.
Despite rumors, the 40-year-old has captained Al-Nassr in three Saudi Pro League matches between continental games.
Reports had claimed that Ronaldo could face punishment under Iranian law following his interaction with Iranian painter Fatima Hamami in 2023.
During their meeting, Ronaldo embraced and kissed Hamami, an act that was speculated to violate local laws prohibiting physical contact with married women.
However, Iran’s embassy dismissed these allegations, describing Ronaldo’s gesture as “sincere and humane.”
A spokesperson for the Iranian embassy said: “We strongly deny the issuance of any court ruling against any international athlete in Iran.
“His sincere and humane meeting with Fatima Hamami was also praised and admired by both the people and the country’s sports authorities.”
Sources in Saudi Arabia indicated that Ronaldo’s absence was actually due to muscle fatigue.
In his absence, Al-Nassr secured a goalless draw against Esteghlal, with January signing Jhon Duran leading the attack alongside Sadio Mane.
Hamami, who creates art by painting with her feet, defended Ronaldo against the accusations. During their meeting, she presented the footballer with a portrait, and Ronaldo responded by gifting her one of his shirts.
In a statement, Hamami expressed her gratitude.
“Unemployed lawyers made accusations against him without my or my family’s permission. 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 love and kindness towards me. I hope the best happens to him in life and football.”
She emphasized that Ronaldo’s actions were innocent and well-intentioned.
“No one told him anything about the laws of Iran, and he didn’t know it either. But Ronaldo’s hug was for love and brotherhood, and he had no bad intentions.
My family and I have no complaints about this issue; we just want to deny these accusations against Cristiano,” she said.
