News Desk |
The popular footballer Cristiano Ronaldo may lose brand endorsements in the wake of rape allegations imposed on him. The US Sports Wear giant Nike has said it is “deeply concerned” on the issue. Another Sports Wear brand EA Sports made similar comments.
Nike has signed a $1bn worth deal with Cristiano Ronaldo but says they would “continue to closely monitor the situation”.
In a statement, Nike said: “We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation.”
Meanwhile, EA Sports told the AP: “We have seen the concerning report that details allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo.
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“We are closely monitoring the situation, as we expect cover athletes and ambassadors to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with EA’s values.”
In a separate development Juventus- the Italian club Cristiano Ronaldo joined showed in its player and defended him.
In a tweet, they said, “Cristiano Ronaldo has shown in recent months his great professionalism and dedication, which is appreciated by everyone at Juventus.”
Cristiano Ronaldo has denied the allegation levelled on him by Kathryn Mayorga, a US former school teacher.
I firmly deny the accusations being issued against me. Rape is an abominable crime that goes against everything that I am and believe in. Keen as I may be to clear my name, I refuse to feed the media spectacle created by people seeking to promote themselves at my expense.
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) October 3, 2018
My clear conscious will thereby allow me to await with tranquillity the results of any and all investigations.
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) October 3, 2018
According to the lady’s account Ronaldo sexually assaulted and raped her after they met at a Las Vegas nightclub ten years back.
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Kathryn lawyer has stated that she is convinced to speak about the incident after the ‘Me Too’ campaign against sexual abuse.
“The #MeToo movement and the women who have stood up and disclosed sexual assaults has given Kathryn a lot of courage,” attorney Leslie Stovall said. Her lawyers added that Kathryn has decided to stay away from media attention. They have already filed the case against Ronaldo and are planning to disclose the evidence they have in terms of police and medical reports.