Here's why:
* No romantic hints: There are no instances in the games, comics, or cartoons where either character expresses romantic feelings for the other.
* Their personalities clash: Rouge is cunning, playful, and focused on treasure, while Knuckles is more serious, dedicated to protecting the Master Emerald, and can be easily tricked. These clashing personalities create a dynamic, but not necessarily a romantic one.
* Knuckles' past relationships: Knuckles has been shown to be interested in other characters, like Julie-Su in the Archie Comics.
However:
* Their interactions: Their dynamic often involves playful banter, teasing, and cooperation during missions. This creates a fun and engaging dynamic, which some fans interpret as a potential romantic interest.
* Fan interpretations: Many fans do ship Knuckles and Rouge together, creating fan art, fanfiction, and discussions around the idea.
In conclusion: The answer to whether Rouge loves Knuckles is ultimately up to interpretation. The canon doesn't explicitly confirm or deny it, but their close relationship and playful dynamic lead some fans to believe they could be romantically interested in each other.