Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from Al-Nassr’s recent Asian Champions League match against Iranian club Esteghlal was clarified by the Iranian embassy, which stated that it was not because of allegations of potential legal consequences he might face in Iran. The 40-year-old forward did not make the trip to Tehran for the match, having also missed a previous game against another Tehran-based team, Persepolis, in the same tournament last month.
The speculation surrounding Ronaldo’s absence originated from an incident involving Fatima Hamami, a disabled Iranian painter, in 2023. During this interaction, Ronaldo reportedly greeted Hamami with a hug and a kiss, acts that were interpreted by some as violations of Iranian law, where physical contact with a married woman can be deemed adulterous.
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However, the Iranian embassy has strongly denied these claims, stating that no legal action was ever initiated against Ronaldo.
A spokesperson emphasized, “We strongly deny the issuance of any court ruling against any international athlete in Iran, and noted that Ronaldo’s meeting with Hamami was well-received and respected by the Iranian people and sports authorities.”
Saudi Arabian reports suggest that Ronaldo’s absence was primarily because of muscle fatigue rather than any legal issues. Following the initial controversy, Hamami defended Ronaldo, asserting that their meeting was respectful. During their encounter, she presented him with a painting of himself she made herself with her feet, while he in return gifted her one of his jerseys.
Hamami addressed the accusations, expressing appreciation for Ronaldo’s kindness and rejecting the claims made against him.
She stated, “Unemployed lawyers made accusations against him without my or my family’s permission,” and reiterated the positive nature of their interaction. She added, “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 support. I hope the best happens to him in life and football.”
“No one informed him about the laws of Iran, and he did not know it either, but Ronaldo’s hug was an expression of love and brotherhood, and he had no ill intentions.” The embassy cleared
