Cristiano Ronaldo’s ex-girlfriend Gemma Atkinson revealed she was offered a large sum of money to criticise him publicly after their split, but refused to do so.
The former couple dated in 2007 during Ronaldo’s early years at Manchester United, and although their relationship was short-lived, Atkinson has consistently avoided controversy when discussing it in the years since.
Gemma Atkinson refused money to criticise Cristiano Ronaldo
Gemma Atkinson opened up about the situation during an interview with Key 103 Radio, revealing the pressure she faced after their breakup.
“When we broke up, I was offered a lot of money to speak badly about him, and I didn’t want it because I had nothing negative to say about him, so I see no reason to speak ill of him,” Atkinson said.
Atkinson explained that despite the financial incentive, she had no interest in fuelling tabloid narratives. Her decision stood out at a time when high-profile splits often led to public disputes and sensational headlines. Instead, she maintained that she had no bad words to share about the Portugal captain.
Their relationship ended amicably, and Atkinson has since built a successful career in television and radio, while Ronaldo went on to cement his legacy as one of football’s all-time greats.
Gemma Atkinson chose privacy over headlines
Atkinson’s stance reflects a broader approach she has taken toward her personal life.
Rather than capitalise on a globally recognised name, she opted to move forward quietly. Over the years, she has reiterated that their breakup was straightforward and that she prefers not to revisit the details publicly.
Ronaldo’s career has spanned multiple leagues and countless records since that period, but Atkinson’s comments demonstrate that not every high-profile relationship ends in bitterness. In her own words, there was simply nothing negative to say.
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