Cristiano Ronaldo "could see his sponsorship empire crumble" over allegations he raped a model in Las Vegas in '09, according to Hamish Williams of YAHOO. The Juventus striker "vehemently denies the allegations," claiming his fame and wealth have "made him a target," but U.S. police reopened the investigation "to see if Ronaldo has a case to answer." The claims are "still unproven" and all of his sponsors are "so far sticking with him." But if the investigation continues, it "would not be a surprise if some of his sponsors re-assess their links." EA Sports is "keeping close tabs on the player. A company spokesperson said, "We have seen the concerning report that details allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo. We are closely monitoring the situation, as we expect cover athletes and ambassadors to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with EA's values." Save the Children, with which Ronaldo is a partner, said, "We are disheartened by the news report we've seen in the last 24 hours and are working to get more information." Ronaldo also has his own "CR7" brand -- valued at £70M ($91.1M). His other current endorsement deals include long-term, multi-million pound contracts with Nike, Herbalife, Tag Heuer and luggage firm American Tourister (YAHOO, 10/4). The AP reported Ronaldo received "public backing" from Juventus, which said "it would not judge him" on the assault claim. That show of support came after Nike released a statement saying that it was "troubled by the details emerging from the lawsuit." Nike: "We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation" (AP, 10/4).
TAKING A BREATHER: MARCA reported Portugal national team Manager Fernando Santos named his squad for the upcoming fixtures against Poland and Scotland, but Ronaldo's name was absent. Portuguese newspaper Record reported Ronaldo spoke with Santos and Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) President Fernando Gomes, and it was agreed that it "would be better" if Ronaldo was "not called for the next matches" (MARCA, 10/4).
