Cristiano Ronaldo accused of adultery? Here’s why the soccer star is facing ‘99 lashes’ punishment for hugging an Iranian painter

Soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly at risk of receiving 99 lashes in Iran due to an innocent hug and kiss he exchanged with Iranian painter Fatima Hamimi during his visit to the country. According to Iranian lawyers, Ronaldo has been accused of committing adultery, as Iranian law considers physical contact with a woman other than one's wife as equivalent to adultery.

An Innocent Gesture Sparks Controversy

Ronaldo journeyed to Iran with Al-Nassr last September when they encountered Persepolis during the Asian Champions League's group stage. During his visit, he had a heartwarming encounter with 85% paralyzed painter Fatima Hamimi, who gifted him some of her paintings.

Hamimi, overjoyed by meeting Ronaldo, received a warm embrace from the football icon, accompanied by a kiss on the cheek. A photograph capturing this moment has incited concern among Iranian lawyers, who have accused Ronaldo of adultery based on the image.

Adultery Accusation and Iranian Law

In Iran, the legal system categorizes any physical contact with a woman outside of one's marriage as adultery. As a result, Ronaldo's friendly gesture, which appeared entirely innocuous to many, has created a substantial controversy in the country.

The Portuguese star has been in a long-term relationship with Georgina Rodriguez, adding to the complexity of the situation.

Reports of a Severe Punishment

Multiple reports emerging from Iran have indicated that Ronaldo has been sentenced to 99 lashes for his actions. However, a report suggested that the punishment might be averted if Ronaldo demonstrates remorse for his behavior.

A television station in Iran, Sharq Emroz, claims that the country's justice system has already issued a sentence of 99 lashes for Ronaldo the next time he visits Iran. Although Ronaldo is not scheduled to return to Iran for an Al-Nassr game, the possibility of future travel remains, either for team-related reasons or personal visits.

In the event of his arrest during any future visit, Ronaldo could be required to serve his sentence of 99 lashes. However, a judge could choose to forgive the punishment if the "acts are not punishable or Ronaldo shows remorse."

Ronaldo currently has no plans to return to Iran for any Al-Nassr games. Nevertheless, if the team progresses to the knockout stages of the Asian Champions League tournament, a potential return to Iran might be on the horizon.

As of now, Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr last year, has not commented on the situation. His actions, motivated by genuine warmth and goodwill, have inadvertently sparked a serious legal controversy in Iran, leaving the soccer superstar facing the possibility of a harsh punishment that many deem disproportionate to the friendly encounter.

FAQs

Which year did Ronaldo go to Real Madrid?
Cristiano Ronaldo is an indelible part of Real Madrid's heritage and will forever be celebrated as one of the club's legendary figures. His official presentation at the Santiago Bernabéu on July 6, 2009, was a momentous occasion, with the presence of luminaries such as Eusebio and Alfredo Di Stéfano. From that day onward, the goals continued to pour in.

How many club goals does Ronaldo have?
Since his debut in 2002, Cristiano Ronaldo has netted more than 700 goals across over 900 club appearances. Furthermore, he stands as the top goal-scorer on the international stage.