VIDEO: Cristiano Ronaldo Apologizes After Breaking Fan's Cellphone
Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo apologized on Saturday for smacking a fan’s cellphone from their hand as he was exiting the field following Manchester United's loss to Everton.
Sarah Kelly, the mother of the 14-year-old fan Jake Harding, told the Liverpool Echo that Ronaldo had “assaulted” and “bruised” her son. She shared photos of her son’s hand that appeared to be bruised along with his smashed phone. A video showed Ronaldo knocking the phone down.
"As players were leaving the pitch at 2.30 p.m., it was reported that a boy was assaulted by one of the away team as they left the pitch," a spokesperson for Merseyside Police said on Saturday.
Ronaldo posted an apology on Instagram.
“It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing. Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game," Ronaldo said.
“I would like to apologize for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship,” he added.
An investigation is still underway.
"Inquiries are under way and officers are currently working with Everton to review CCTV footage and are carrying out extensive witness enquiries to establish if an offence has taken place," a spokesperson for Merseyside Police said.
"Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police contact centre quoting reference number 228 of 9 April 2022," the police statement read.
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