Nike Threatened to Ax Cristiano Ronaldo over CR7 Footwear Line

There are few more marketable athletes in the world than Cristiano Ronaldo, but it seems even the Real Madrid star can push his luck. 

The Portuguese superstar is sponsored by Nike, which gritted its teeth as Ronaldo first launched an underwear line and then expanded it to include shirts. 

However, according to a report in Sport, the American giant finally started flexing its muscles when Ronaldo said the CR7 brand was to launch a range of footwear. 

According to the online English version of the Spanish newspaper: 

"

Ronaldo launched the range of footwear at Milan Shoe Fair last week, with boots, loafers and dress shoes all included in the collection. 

Prices for the items ranged from €100 to €550. 

However, Nike were not happy and offered the 30-year-old an ultimatum: Drop the footwear range or lose your contract with Nike. 

"

Sport is claiming Ronaldo has backed off and the footwear line has been withdrawn.

The Sport report claims Ronaldo earns €9 million a year from Nike, but other reports say that figure is much higher, with the Daily Mail suggesting Ronaldo signed a £14.1 million annual deal with Nike last summer. 

Either way, he'd be wise to stay in its good books. 

[Sport EN]