Former Real Madrid and Brazil defender Roberto Carlos has denied circulating reports that he has converted to Islam, saying any such change would be announced by him personally if it ever occurred.
In a statement addressing the rumour, the 53-year-old Brazilian said he holds Islam in high regard but remains adherent to another faith.
“I have great respect for Islam, and it’s truly beautiful to see my wife praying (salat). However, the rumour circulating about me converting to Islam is not true,” Carlos said.
He added: “I am not yet a Muslim, but I am learning little by little. I follow another religion, and there has been much talk in the news that I have become a Muslim. But not yet. It’s not true.”
Carlos emphasised that speculation on the matter was unwelcome. “We must wait; if it does happen, I will announce it myself. I absolutely do not like them discussing something that is not true.”
The comments follow widespread online discussion claiming the former left-back had embraced Islam. Carlos, who won multiple titles with Real Madrid and the 2002 World Cup with Brazil, has not previously made public statements indicating a change of religion.
