Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos has denied claims circulating on social media that he converted to Islam, while underlining his respect for the religion and for his Muslim wife's faith.
The former Real Madrid and Brazil national team star addressed the rumors after they gained traction online following comments attributed to a religious official in Brazil.
Reports about Carlos' marriage to a Muslim woman, along with the inclusion of Islamic traditions in their wedding, had also fueled speculation about whether the former footballer had changed his religion.
Carlos directly rejected the claims in comments to Saudi Arabian newspaper Okaz, making clear that his appreciation for his wife's religious practices should not be interpreted as evidence that he had converted.
"It is wonderful to see my wife praying, but the rumors that I have become Muslim are not true," Carlos said.