.jpg "Iranian Embassy in Madrid denies report that Cristiano Ronaldo was sentenced to ’99 lashings’ for ‘adultery’ after visit with disabled fan last month")
The Iranian embassy in Madrid has refuted allegations that Cristiano Ronaldo has been sentenced to receive 99 lashes for adultery.
The Al-Nassr star met Iranian painter Fatemeh Hamami, who is 85 percent paralyzed and a devoted fan, while travelling with the Saudi team during their AFC Champions League match against Persepolis in Iran last month.
Ronaldo received a painting of himself from the artist and they embraced while posing for a picture.
According to Mundo Deportivo, several lawyers in Iran have filed a criminal complaint regarding the hug, as physical contact with a woman who is not one’s wife is considered adultery in the country. The report claims that the judiciary system responded swiftly and sentenced the 38-year-old to 99 lashes.
However, the embassy in Madrid has dismissed these rumors and emphasized that the athlete’s meeting with the painter was sanctioned by Iranian officials.
“We strongly deny any sentence being issued against any international athlete in Iran,” stated the embassy.
“We find it concerning that the publication of such unfounded news could detract attention from crimes against humanity and war crimes committed against the oppressed Palestinian nation.
“It should be noted that Cristiano Ronaldo traveled to Iran on September 18 and 19 to participate in an official soccer match and was warmly received by the people and authorities of the country.
“His sincere and compassionate meeting with Fatemeh Hamami was also praised and admired by both the public and sports authorities.”