Cristiano Ronaldo has described himself as “a happy man” and insisted that the "truth will come out" after being accused of sexual assault.
Kathryn Mayorga, a 34-year-old American woman, alleges she was raped by Ronaldo in Las Vegas in 2009. The Juventus forward has denied all allegations against him.
Ronaldo returns to play former club Manchester United on Tuesday night and appeared alongside manager Massimiliano Allegri at Tuesday’s pre-match press conference at Old Trafford.
When asked whether Mayorga’s allegations had affected him and whether he considers himself a role model, he said: “I know I am an example. I know, 100 per cent. On the pitch and outside the pitch.
“So I am always smiling, I am happy man, I’m blessed that I play in a fantastic club I have a fantastic family, I have four kids, I am healthy. I have everything. So the rest, it doesn’t interfere on me. I’m very very well.
When asked specifically about the allegations themselves, Ronaldo emphasised his ‘happiness’ again and claimed that the truth will ultimately ‘come in the first position’.
“You didn’t listen to what I say. I am a happy man,” he reiterated. ”We did the statement two weeks ago, if I’m not wrong. I am glad, of course, I’m not going to lie in this situation, I’m very happy.
“My lawyers, they are confident and of course I am, too. The most important, is I enjoy the football, I enjoy my life.
“The rest, I have people who take care of my life. Of course, the truth is always coming in the first position. So, I’m good.”