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

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