Brazilian Roberto Carlos, the Real Madrid and Brazil legend, has put an end to the recent controversy surrounding his conversion to Islam, confirming that he has not changed his religion and that what has been circulating in this regard has no relation to the truth.
Carlos, speaking to Lebanese journalist Malek Maktabi, said that he greatly respects Islam, but stressed that the news about his conversion to Islam is incorrect, confirming that he is still a Catholic Christian and respects all religions and beliefs.
The rumor that Carlos had converted to Islam spread widely after news and photos circulated claiming that he had married Moroccan businesswoman and players' agent Souhaila Tahiri, linking the alleged marriage to the player's decision to change his religion.
But Carlos and Souhaila Tahiri denied this account in their conversation with Malek Maktabi, as Tahiri confirmed that no marriage had taken place between them, explaining that the photos circulating were taken during an event that brought them together in Brazil, and not from a wedding ceremony as had been promoted.
Carlos's statements put an end to the rumors that had been escalating in recent days, especially after accounts were relayed from other figures claiming that he had recited the Shahada and converted to Islam.
The former Real Madrid star stressed his respect for all religions, expressing his displeasure at the circulation of what he described as incorrect information, and affirming that his respect for Islam does not mean changing his religious beliefs.
Roberto Carlos, 53, played as a left-back and was famous for his great speed and rocket shots. He spent the most prominent years of his career with Real Madrid between 1996 and 2007, where he won the Champions League 3 times and the Spanish League 4 times.
He was also one of the most prominent stars of the Brazilian national team, winning the 2002 World Cup with them, in addition to winning the Copa America in 1997 and 1999, and retired from football in 2015.
