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Gareth Bale Recasts His Real Madrid Years in New Interview, Citing Father's Illness for 2023 Retirement

The Wales great says years of misinformation distorted his image in Spain.

Overview

  • He says his father Frank’s illness was the decisive factor in stepping away from football in January 2023, shortly after the Qatar World Cup.
  • Bale disputes the long-held golf narrative, saying he typically played only once every two or three weeks and only on days off.
  • He explains the ‘Wales. Golf. Madrid.’ episode, saying he never physically touched the flag and felt he was ‘slaughtered’ by the Spanish press.
  • He denies any rift with Cristiano Ronaldo, saying they never argued or had issues during their time together at Real Madrid.
  • He acknowledges being ‘naive’ about Madrid’s scrutiny and not defending himself, while highlighting a decorated career and a current move into media work with TNT Sports and CBS.