Suarez apologizes for biting opponent at World Cup

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — After a few days of reflection, Luis Suarez acknowledged what millions saw on TV — he did bite an opponent during a game at the World Cup. In addition, he said he's sorry about it, and promised it will never happen again.

Ending a unified protest in Uruguay by everyone from Suarez to teammates, fans and even the country's president that the star striker had done nothing wrong, the Liverpool player on Monday offered an apology to Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini.

"I deeply regret what occurred," Suarez said in a statement posted on Twitter. "I apologize to Giorgio Chiellini and the entire football family. ... I vow to the public that there will never again be another incident like (this)."

The Uruguay striker was banned for four months from all football by FIFA for biting the shoulder of Chiellini during the team's 1-0 win over Italy in their group-stage game in Brazil. The incident was not spotted by the referee, and the Uruguayans' victory sent them through to the second round while Italy was eliminated. It is the third time Suarez has been banned for biting an opponent, after similar incidents at both Ajax in the Dutch league and Liverpool in the English Premier League.

Chiellini responded on Twitter shortly after Suarez posted his statement, accepting the apology.

"It's all forgotten," the Italian wrote in English. "I hope FIFA will reduce your suspension."

The "Vampire" strikes again ...

Suarez risks losing sponsorship deal with poker brand 888

CURITIBA Brazil (Reuters) - Poker brand 888 said it was reviewing its sponsorship deal with Luis Suarez after the Uruguay striker was accused of biting an opponent during a World Cup match on Tuesday.

Suarez, who plays for Liverpool in the English Premier League, became one of the online gambling company's brand ambassadors last month.

"Following the allegations made against Luis Suarez in regards to his behavior during Uruguay’s World Cup match against Italy, 888poker is seriously reviewing its relationship with the player as we will not tolerate any unsporting behavior," 888poker said in a statement on Wednesday.

Soccer's governing body FIFA is investigating an incident which has made headlines around the world. Suarez, twice previously banned for biting, looks likely to be hit with another lengthy suspension despite escaping punishment during the match.