Sometimes athletes will go out of their way for fans that show them love. Three years ago, LeBron James reportedly invited 17-year-old fan Anthony Erskine to a New Jersey Nets game after he stormed the court at Madison Square Garden. A few months ago, he high-fived a fan wearing a "We Miss You, LeBron" t-shirt during a regular season return to Cleveland.
However, he never went as far as Cristiano Ronaldo has for Ronald Gjoka. The 20-year-old fan is facing charges for rushing the pitch during a Real Madrid match this summer. After the judge refused to drop all charges, Ronaldo wrote a letter urging the court to reconsider. I'm just curious though. What would Ronaldo have done if the fan were wearing a Messi or Gareth Bale jersey?
Via UK Telegraph:
"His name is Ronald Gjoka, a young college student. We hugged, and we spoke for a while, until security arrived to escort him off the field. He was not aggressive or violent in ANY way. What's more, he did not put up any resistance when the security guards and police arrived.
"As I understand it, he has admitted his mistake and understands the importance of security. He is a young man of twenty who grew up without a father and was raised by a single mother. He attends Palm Beach State Community College, Florida, with an international student grant.
"I am concerned because I understand he may face problems with immigration and with his college if the criminal charges against him are not dropped. He was immediately taken to the Stadium's security area and then spent a day and a half in jail.
"It seems he appeared before a judge on Monday accompanied by his attorney who asked for the charges to be dropped, but you chose to ignore his appeal.
"I understand your position and the importance of enforcing rules and laws. However, I respectfully request that you and your office reconsider this decision and dismiss the two criminal charges this young man faces.
"I would hate to see him face criminal charges for his mistake. By all accounts he has a bright future ahead of him and I'd hate to see this future ruined by an error of judgement. Thank you. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me directly at any time."
Sincerely,
Cristiano Ronaldo.
