Cristiano Ronaldo: Rape allegation made 2018 the worst year of my life

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said it hurts that people have questioned his honour

Wednesday 21 August 2019 17:42 BST
Comments
Cristiano Ronaldo's lawyer says rape claim documents are 'fabrications'

Your support helps us to tell the story

As your White House correspondent, I ask the tough questions and seek the answers that matter.

Your support enables me to be in the room, pressing for transparency and accountability. Without your contributions, we wouldn't have the resources to challenge those in power.

Your donation makes it possible for us to keep doing this important work, keeping you informed every step of the way to the November election

Head shot of Andrew Feinberg

Andrew Feinberg

White House Correspondent

Cristiano Ronaldo says the rape allegation against him was an attack on his honour and led to one of the worst years of his life.

Ronaldo was accused of raping a woman in Las Vegas more than 10 years ago but won’t face criminal charges after it was determined the investigation failed to show the claim could be proven at trial beyond a reasonable doubt.

Ronaldo told Portuguese television TVI that “2018 was probably my worst year ever, personally speaking.”

He added: “When people question your honour, it hurts, it hurts a lot.”

The Juventus player did not directly talk about the 2009 accusation brought on by Kathryn Mayorga, who in a separate lawsuit says she was pressured to sign an agreement to keep quiet in exchange for $375,000.

Ronaldo said he was not “comfortable speaking” about the case, “but when people attack your honour, it is difficult.”

He said he was thankful and proud “once again” that his innocence has been proven.

AP

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in