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Real Madrid's Antonio Rudiger has distanced himself from ISIS following a post on Instagram but believes he gave the chance for misinterpretation.
Real Madrid star Antonio Rudiger has strongly condemned suggestions that he has links to extremist groups following an Instagram post celebrating Ramadan.
The German international posted a picture on his social media account with his index finger pointed upwards, which was subsequently interpreted by a German journalist as an "ISIS finger" - a purported symbol of Islamism.
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Rudiger rejects Islamist links
Rudiger took to his social media page to share what looks an innocent post as he broke his fast with the caption; "May the Almighty accept our fasting and prayers.”
However, the post from the former Chelsea defender appeared to have sent the wrong message, leading to accusations that Rudiger’s salute was a sign of extremism.
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The German international has now firmly rejected these accusations, explaining that the gesture is a common symbol known as the "tawhid finger" in Islam, representing the unity and oneness of God.
"The gesture I used is called a tawhid finger. In Islam, this is considered a symbol of the unity and oneness of God," Rudiger said per Marca.
"The gesture is widespread among Muslims all over the world and only in the last few days has the Federal Ministry of the Interior classified it as non-problematic."
The 31-year-old, who is a devout Muslim, stressed that he firmly distances himself from any form of extremism or Islamism.
"As a devout Muslim, I practise my faith, but I firmly distance myself from any kind of extremism and accusations of Islamism. Violence and terrorism are absolutely unacceptable. I stand for peace and tolerance," he stated.
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Rudiger acknowledged that the post may have been open to misinterpretation, leading to division and polarisation. However, he emphasised that he will not provide a platform for such narratives.
"I also recognise that due to insufficient attention, I have given third parties the opportunity to deliberately misinterpret my publication in order to divide and polarise,” he added.
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“But I will not provide a platform for division and radicalisation, which is why I have decided to make a clear statement after our two successful international matches," Rudiger concluded.
The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding religious symbols and the importance of context in their interpretation.
Rudiger's firm rejection of any links to extremism underscores his commitment to his faith and his desire to promote unity and tolerance.
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