Kylian Mbappe has apologized in French, Chinese and English after comments about a meme depicting him as Mao Zedong triggered criticism in China and prompted several companies and broadcasters to distance themselves from the Real Madrid forward.
Chinese media reported Monday that Mbappe acknowledged his remarks were inappropriate and said he understood they had offended people in China and Chinese communities elsewhere.
"I apologize to everyone who was hurt by my words," Mbappe said in the statement, adding that he respected the Chinese people and their history and had not intended to cause offense.
The apology followed public pressure from China Media Group, which includes state broadcaster CCTV.
CCTV reported that La Liga President Javier Tebas had written to CMG to condemn Mbappe's comments and express regret over the controversy.
CMG responded by saying further discussion would require prompt public apologies from La Liga, Real Madrid and Mbappe.
Even after Mbappe issued his statement, a CMG official said the broadcaster would judge the response by actions as well as words and called for those involved to show that they had learned from the episode.
The dispute began after Mbappe was asked during an interview with French media to identify the funniest meme featuring his face. He chose an image that placed his face on Mao's and said he often used it while playing games with friends.
The remarks quickly drew criticism in China.
Mengniu, Eastroc Beverage, Budweiser China and Milkground were among the brands reported to have suspended cooperation with Mbappe.
CCTV also stopped airing La Liga matches involving him and removed advertisements in which he appeared.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a regular briefing that remarks or actions that offend the Chinese public would face broad rejection in Chinese society.
(This article was produced with the assistance of AI. — Ed.)
