Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos has dismissed reports that he embraced Islam following his marriage to Moroccan football agent Souhaila El Tahiri.
The former Real Madrid and Brazil star addressed the claims in an exclusive interview with Saudi newspaper Okaz after widespread speculation across social media.
"I have the utmost respect for Islam, and it is wonderful to see my wife praying, but circulating reports about my conversion are untrue," Carlos told Okaz.
Images showing Carlos taking part in what appeared to be an Islamic marriage ceremony circulated online, fuelling conversion rumours. However, Carlos explained that he and El Tahiri held ceremonies in different forms to respect their families' respective religious beliefs.
His comments refute claims that the 53-year-old converted to Islam after reciting the Shahada during a meeting with Sheikh Jihad Hamada, a prominent figure in Brazil's Muslim community.
The claims gained further traction after Turkish politician Ali Şahin stated he had heard of the reported conversion during a meeting with representatives from Brazil's Muslim community.
Roberto Carlos denies conversion to Islam
Reuters File Photo
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