Performance enhancing drugs are always a hot topic in sports, especially as athletes get increasingly bigger and more athletic, whether through better training regimens or other, more nefarious means. In the latest PED scandal involving a legend of the sporting world, former Brazilian full back Roberto Carlos was named in connection with doping by a documentary aired by German broadcaster ARD this week.
The documentary, titled “Doping top secret: Brazil’s dirty game,” shows Julio Cesar Alves, the doctor accused of allehedly administering illegal substances, claiming to have treated Roberto Carlos since the Seleçao star was 15. Alves goes on to take credit for curating Carlos’ iconic massive thighs, while admitting that he coached his patients on how to avoid positive tests.
Since the documentary aired, Carlos has passionately denied any claims that he was involved in doping or that he used any performance enhancers. “I repudiate vehemently the irresponsible accusations made by the German network ARD, and affirm that I have never used any artifice to allow me to have any advantage over my colleagues in the playing field,” Carlos said via Facebook. The legendary left-back also went on to state that he had never visited Alves, despite claims that he was seen in the doctors office in July of 2002.
Carlos went on, saying that “I have always defended the fairness and loyalty of the game. These false accusations against me are the complete opposite of what I believe. In more than 20 years as a professional player, I never tested positive to any prohibited substance.”
In more light hearted news this week, the Brazilian participated in the Corazon Classic, a match between Real Madrid Legends and their counterparts from AS Roma. During the match, Roberto Carlos wore wore a body camera to provide an up-close-and-personal look, from the POV of one of the best players of all time. Come for the interactions with other legends such as Cafu and Luis Figo, stay for the first person free kicks that show you how Roberto Carlos became one of the most feared set piece takers of all time.