Major Controversies Surrounding Wayne Rooney: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Wayne Rooney—discover key moments of controversy.

Wayne Rooney, an English professional football manager and former player, is considered one of the best players of his generation and a British great. He holds the record for most goals scored for Manchester United and was England's top goalscorer from 2015-2023. Rooney also holds the record for England appearances by an outfield player. While primarily a forward, he played various midfield roles throughout his career.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

July 2002: Stretford Encouraged Rooney to sign Proactive Contract

In July 2002, agent Paul Stretford encouraged Rooney and his parents to enter into an eight-year contract with Proactive Sports Management, while Rooney was already with another firm.

October 2004: Stretford Alleges Blackmail Attempt

In his October 2004 trial, Stretford alleged that he had secretly recorded boxing promoter John Hyland and two other men threatening and attempting to blackmail him for a percentage of Rooney's earnings.

2004: Rooney Admits to Soliciting Prostitutes

In 2004, Rooney admitted to soliciting prostitutes in Liverpool while dating his then-girlfriend, Coleen.

April 2006: Libel Damages Awarded

In April 2006, Rooney was awarded £100,000 in libel damages from tabloids The Sun and News of the World, who had falsely claimed he assaulted Coleen in a nightclub. Rooney donated the money to charity.

August 2006: Sent off against Porto

On 4 August 2006, Wayne Rooney was sent off in the Amsterdam Tournament match against Porto after hitting Pepe with his elbow.

September 2006: Moyes Sues Rooney for Libel

In September 2006, Everton manager David Moyes sued Rooney for libel after the Daily Mail published excerpts from Rooney's 2006 autobiography.

June 2008: Libel Case Settled Out of Court

On June 3, 2008, the libel case between David Moyes and Rooney was settled out of court for £500,000, with Rooney apologizing for false claims made in his book.

July 2008: Stretford Found Guilty

On July 9, 2008, Paul Stretford was found guilty of making false statements to the police and giving false testimony related to Rooney's contract.

July 2010: Proactive Awarded Restitution

In July 2010, Proactive was awarded £90,000 as restitution after suing Rooney for withheld commissions.

August 2010: Allegations of Threesome

In August 2010, allegations surfaced that Rooney paid for a threesome with Helen Wood and Jennifer Thompson in a Manchester hotel while his wife was pregnant.

October 2010: Coca-Cola Drops Rooney

In October 2010, Coca-Cola dropped Rooney from an advertising campaign following issues surrounding his private life.

2010: Controversy at the 2010 FIFA World Cup

During the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Wayne Rooney was at the center of controversy after criticizing England fans for booing the team following a draw against Algeria on June 18. He later apologized for his actions. England was eliminated in the second round.

September 2014: Rooney Becomes Third Highest Premier League Goalscorer and Receives a Red Card

On September 27, 2014, Rooney surpassed Thierry Henry to become the third-highest Premier League goalscorer with 176 goals in a 2–1 victory against West Ham. However, in the same match, he was sent off for a foul on Stewart Downing, resulting in a three-game suspension.

February 2015: Criticism for Diving and Apology

On February 16, 2015, in an FA Cup match against Preston North End, Rooney faced criticism for diving to earn a penalty. Despite replays suggesting no contact with the goalkeeper, Rooney later apologized, acknowledging his intent to secure a penalty. This penalty marked his first goal in 2015, ending a goalless streak.

September 2017: Arrested for Drink Driving

In September 2017, Rooney was arrested in Wilmslow for driving over the prescribed alcohol limit. He was fined, banned from driving for two years, and ordered to complete unpaid work.

December 2018: Arrested for Public Intoxication

In December 2018, Rooney was arrested at Washington Dulles International Airport for public intoxication and use of profanity. He was released without bail and fined.