Real Madrid have issued a statement backing tennis star Rafael Nadal following allegations of doping by former French Minister for Health and Sport Roselyne Bachelot.
The Spanish athlete stated he has always been a "completely clean guy" during the week and has previously stated that he has passed countless doping tests. Real Madrid jumped to their honorary member's defense with a statement on their official website.
"Real Madrid C.F. would like to express their full support to our honorary member, Rafa Nadal, undoubtedly one of the greatest sportsmen of all time in Spain and in the world.
Rafa Nadal represents the fundamental values of sport. His greatness and his incredible achievements have always been based upon a foundation of exemplary conduct, unwavering work, talent and astonishing levels of commitment.
This being the case, our institution considers the attacks made on his person by former minister Roselyne Bachelot to be unjustifiable and unacceptable.
Real Madrid C.F. consider the close ties to an idol such as Nadal to be an honour, such is his status as a symbol sporting excellence. Nadal is admired and adored by millions of fans the world over, and today our club is standing firmly by his side."
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