Jordan sues, company hits back

Shanghai: A Chinese sportswear firm sued by Michael Jordan over the unauthorized use of his name has in turn sued the retired National Basketball Association (NBA) superstar for $8 million (around ₹ 44 crore) for hurting its reputation, state media said on Wednesday. Jordan’s original lawsuit against Qiaodan last year alleged the firm deliberately misled Chinese consumers about its ties to the six-time NBA champion. Jordan said he was taking action to preserve ownership of his name and brand. Jordan has been known in China by the Chinese name “Qiaodan” since he became a global basketball star in the 1980s.

Qiaodan Sports Co. Ltd. said Jordan misled the public and its customers with his lawsuit, the China Daily newspaper said. Qiaodan could not immediately be reached for comment.