Fans jealous of 'rich, handsome' Ronaldo
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Shanghai Daily, September 16, 2011
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Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Real Madrid complains to referee Svein Oddvar Moen during their Champions League Group D soccer match against Dinamo Zagreb at the Maksimir stadium in Zagreb, Sept 14, 2011. [Photo/Agencies] |
Opposing fans give Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo a hostile reception because he is "rich, handsome and a great player," the Portuguese said after Wednesday's 1-0 Champions League win at Dinamo Zagreb.
Ronaldo, the world's most expensive signing, was roundly booed and whistled during the Group D opener in Croatia and was also the target of some robust challenges, one of which drew blood on his right ankle and required several stitches.
He was asked by reporters about the behavior of the Dinamo fans, who gave him the kind of unfriendly reception he endures week in week out in La Liga and chanted the name of his Barcelona archrival and World Player of the Year Lionel Messi of Argentina.
"I think that because I am rich, handsome and a great player people are envious of me," he said. "I don't have any other explanation."
The 26-year-old was unhappy with referee Svein Oddvar Moen and said top players were not getting enough protection.
"We are very happy with three points we took, but I'm not so satisfied with the refereeing," he told reporters.
"I hope we never have this referee again.
"People talk of fair play, of protecting good players, but I never get any of that. I don't understand a thing.
"I'm sad because I hear referees saying they will protect skilful players, but while some are untouchable it seems I can be mauled."
Argentine winger Angel Di Maria scored the only goal of the match for Jose Mourinho's side in the 53rd minute as Real began its quest for a 10th title in Europe's elite club competition.
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