Ronaldo: fans boo me as I'm rich and beautiful

THE WORLD got an insight into the warped mind of Cristiano Ronaldo this week when the preening Portuguese star explained that the only reason fans boo him is because they are jealous of his money and good looks.

Ronaldo was given a particularly hostile reception by Dinamo Zagreb supporters during Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over the Croatian side on Wednesday. The reason, according to the 26-year-old, was simple.

"I think that because I am rich, handsome and a great player people are envious of me," he said after the game. "I don't have any other explanation."

Previously, many in the media had presumed it was Ronaldo's tendency to go down at the slightest of touches, as if mortally wounded, or his famously stroppy pitch persona that was the cause of resentment among opposing fans. But no, according to Ronaldo, it is jealously alone that fuels the boo-boys.

One can't help but wonder if the Portuguese had a similar explanation for the persistent jeering he received in the Premier League after returning from the 2006 World Cup. In that tournament, Ronaldo was seen baiting Wayne Rooney during Portugal's defeat of England during the quarter-final, aiming a sly wink at the bench when Rooney eventually lost his temper and was sent off.

Ronaldo was hounded by English fans when he returned to league action – but presumably it was only because they were envious of his wonderful tan and ability to wear hotpants.

Discussing Wednesday's tight victory in Madrid's Champions League opener, Ronaldo also criticised the officials after being the target for a series of nasty tackles, including one that drew blood on his right ankle. "I hope we never have this referee again," he said.

"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." The tough tackles, no doubt, were also motivated by envy. ·