Cristiano Ronaldo's Ex-Girlfriend Breaks Silence on Alleged Blackmail Offer
In a startling revelation, Gemma Atkinson, a former girlfriend of football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, has spoken out about a disturbing incident following their breakup in 2007. The English influencer and radio presenter disclosed that she was offered a substantial sum of money to publicly criticize and "blackmail" the Al Nassr star, but she firmly refused, citing her positive experience with him.
Atkinson's Bold Confession on Radio Interview
During an interview with Key 103 Radio, Atkinson opened up about the aftermath of her brief four-month relationship with Ronaldo, which occurred during his first stint at Manchester United. She described the Portuguese icon as a respectful and honorable partner throughout their time together, emphasizing that she had no negative remarks to make about him.
"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 stated. At 41 years old, she highlighted her decision to resist financial temptation, choosing integrity over profit and refusing to tarnish the reputation of one of the world's most esteemed athletes, as reported by Give Me Sport.
Public Reactions and Praise for Atkinson's Integrity
Following Atkinson's revelation, social media users have widely praised her for her ethical stance. Comments from platforms like X (formerly Twitter) reflect admiration for her class and honesty in a celebrity culture often marred by scandals.
- @jabhaikamkar said: "Gemma Atkinson refusing cash offers to criticise Ronaldo post-breakup: 'Had nothing negative to say.' Rare integrity in celeb world — respect!"
- @Michael59598404 wrote: "Honestly, respect levels over 9000. Some people would've taken the cheque and started a reality TV drama, but she's out here keeping it clean and classy definitely a winner off the pitch vibe."
- @wonsbyte added: "Imagine the kind of live we lived in. Imagine Gemma is another toxic person, she would have accepted the offer. As a successful Men, watch before you date."
- @PervaizAhmed123 said: "She refused big money to trash Cristiano Ronaldo after their breakup, saying she had nothing negative to say—integrity over profit."
- @altasfi36 wrote: "Respect! Staying honest after a breakup is inspiring. Wow! Refusing to speak badly shows true character. She handled it so classy. Honesty always wins."
Ronaldo's Current Relationship and Future Plans
Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo is currently in a long-term relationship with Georgina Rodriguez, whom he met at a Gucci store during his tenure at Real Madrid. The Al Nassr star officially proposed to Rodriguez in August 2025 after nine years together, and according to Goal, they plan to marry after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Atkinson has since moved on with her life, now engaged to Spanish dancer Gorka Márquez, with whom she shares two children, Mia and Thiago, as noted by Heavy.
Contrast with Other Football News
In related football news, Barcelona star Lamine Yamal recently announced his split from girlfriend Nicki Nicole, ending a controversial relationship amid allegations of cheating. This contrasts sharply with Atkinson's dignified handling of her past with Ronaldo, underscoring the varied dynamics in celebrity breakups.
This story highlights the pressures faced by public figures and the importance of maintaining integrity in the face of lucrative but unethical offers. Atkinson's refusal to engage in blackmail serves as a reminder of the value of honesty and respect in personal and professional relationships.
