ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Brazilian and Real Madrid football legend Roberto Carlos has rejected reports circulating on social media and in sections of the media claiming that he has converted to Islam.
According to Arab media reports, the 53-year-old former Brazil international addressed the speculation through an Instagram story, saying reports about his conversion were incorrect.
Carlos said he had great respect for Islam and the Muslim community but had not converted to the faith. He also stressed his respect for different religions and beliefs.
The clarification followed widespread claims on social media and reports attributed to Turkish sources that the former Real Madrid star had embraced Islam.
The speculation gained momentum after claims emerged that Carlos had recited the Islamic declaration of faith during a meeting with a Muslim scholar in Brazil. A Turkish lawmaker was also reported to have shared the claim.
Carlos' direct denial, however, contradicted those reports.
Speculation surrounding his religious beliefs was also linked to reports about his recent marriage to Moroccan-origin football agent Souhaila El Tahiri.
Images from wedding celebrations showing elements of Islamic and Moroccan traditions were circulated online, with some social media users interpreting them as evidence that Carlos had converted to Islam.
Carlos explained that different wedding celebrations were organised while respecting the religious beliefs, traditions and cultural backgrounds of both families.
He said the presence of Islamic customs at wedding events should therefore not be interpreted as confirmation of a change in his religion.
The former footballer further indicated that if he ever decided to embrace Islam in the future, he would announce the decision himself.
Carlos is regarded as one of the most celebrated left-backs in football history. He enjoyed a highly successful career with Real Madrid and was a key member of the Brazil team that won the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
His clarification underscores the risks of treating unverified social media claims concerning public figures as established facts, particularly when the claims involve personal matters such as religious beliefs.