Cristiano Ronaldo wins apology from Daily Telegraph
Sport
Apology | 8 November 2010
Cristiano Ronaldo has won his libel action against the UK's Daily Telegraph newspaper.
The world renowned footballer, through his London lawyers Schillings, sued in response to an article featured on the front page of the Daily Telegraph Sport Supplement which falsely alleged he had acted unprofessionally and irresponsibly by drinking to excess and dancing without crutches on his injured ankle in Los Angeles in July 2008. The article further stated that Cristiano’s alleged conduct had dismayed Manchester United Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, and that Roy Keane, former Manchester United captain, had criticised him.
Both Sir Alex Ferguson and Roy Keane were due to give evidence at trial on Cristiano Ronaldo’s behalf.
Cristiano Ronaldo said last night in a statement issued through his solicitor Schillings:
"I am delighted with this outcome. I take enormous pride in my professionalism. I treat my training and recovery from injury very seriously and would never have drunk and danced in a nightclub without my crutches as the Daily Telegraph falsely claimed. I felt I had no choice but to begin and pursue these legal proceedings. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sir Alex Ferguson, Roy Keane and the others who were ready to appear as witnesses at the trial which had been due to start today.”
Sir Alex Ferguson added:
“The article was entirely false. Cristiano is the consummate professional and he takes his health and fitness very seriously. He is one of the best players I have ever worked with. I was ready and willing to appear as a witness and I am delighted that he has resolved this issue successfully.”
Roy Keane, in support of Cristiano Ronaldo, added:
“The article was false and misleading in every respect, notably by suggesting that I had criticised Cristiano. Cristiano is a great football player and is very professional. I am happy to see the record set straight.”