Interesting post op. Instead of indifference I had to deal with provoking strong reactions my whole adult life. Which isn't very hard in the American culture espec. now.
I just think that you are using slightly wrong example in Ronaldo. He is the most globally recognized football player in the world so sheer numbers are at play here, but he also kind of looks/behaves like a fairy. That is always bound to invite non-indifference for all the wrong reasons.
Look at Ibrahimovic who behaves like a certified arrogant asshole on/off the pitch, and while controversial does not invite nearly as much hate (per football fan capita) as Ronaldo (because his tougher image/tall height are more congruent with his perceived personality.)
Though I'm prolly going in different direction with this than you intended.
I just think that you are using slightly wrong example in Ronaldo. He is the most globally recognized football player in the world so sheer numbers are at play here, but he also kind of looks/behaves like a fairy. That is always bound to invite non-indifference for all the wrong reasons.
Look at Ibrahimovic who behaves like a certified arrogant asshole on/off the pitch, and while controversial does not invite nearly as much hate (per football fan capita) as Ronaldo (because his tougher image/tall height are more congruent with his perceived personality.)
Though I'm prolly going in different direction with this than you intended.