Reputed journalist Piers Morgan has slammed the BBC for their controversial caption, “Misstiano Penaldo,” following Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty miss in Portugal’s Euro 2024 match against Slovenia, according to Sportskeeda. Morgan questioned whether the BBC would have treated Lionel Messi with the same disrespect, highlighting the perceived bias against Ronaldo in the media.
Ronaldo had the opportunity to put Portugal ahead in extra time but was denied by opposition goalkeeper Jan Oblak. The BBC Sport highlights package captioned the moment, “Misstiano Penaldo,” a playful jibe at Ronaldo’s expense. However, Morgan took offense to the caption, calling it “cheap” and “disrespectful.”
“Who did this? Why did they think it's OK to mock a legend of the game like Cristiano in such a cheap way during a publicly-funded broadcaster's output of an international tournament?” Morgan wrote on his X account.
He added, “Would the BBC have done that to Messi or any other great? No. So why did they do it to Ronaldo?”
Morgan’s criticism highlights the intense scrutiny Ronaldo faces, even when he doesn’t perform at his best. The Portugal superstar has yet to score in Euro 2024, a rare drought for a player known for his goal-scoring prowess.
Meanwhile, Messi has also failed to score in Copa America 2024, a first for both players in their international careers. Despite this, Messi has impressed in midfield, controlling most of Argentina’s good work and notching an assist.
The controversy surrounding the BBC caption has sparked debate about media bias and the treatment of top players. Morgan’s comments have resonated with many who believe Ronaldo receives unfair criticism, while others see the caption as a harmless joke.
Regardless, the incident has added fuel to the ongoing debate about the media’s role in shaping public perception of athletes and their performances.