Madonna's Father-In-Law: Adoption Was a Strain

Guy Ritchie's father says the controversy surrounding the couple's adoption caused tension

The controversy sparked by Madonna and Guy Ritchie’s recent efforts to adopt a Malawian boy caused tension in the couple’s marriage, Ritchie’s father says.

“I don’t know if they have serious marriage problems, but they have had a difficult time,” says John Ritchie.

“They were both under an unbelievable amount of pressure because of all the press surrounding the adoption. It has caused tension and been deeply upsetting. It has all been a big strain.”

However, the elder Ritchie adds: “When I went to see David they seemed alright, considering. Quite happy.”

Madonna, 48, and Guy Ritchie, 38, are already raising kids Lourdes, 10, and Rocco, 6, who the singer told Oprah Winfrey have been “great” with 14-month-old David Banda.

The little boy “is beautiful,” John Ritchie says, “and Guy is very, very good with him. He loves small children and has a natural way with them.”

And despite reports that Madonna was interested in adopting a girl from Malawi, Ritchie says, “Guy hasn’t told me about adopting a second child. I don’t think he would want to and I don’t think they are planning to.” (Madonna’s rep has denied the reports.)