Cristiano Ronaldo defends himself against rape allegation – says 'lawyers are confident'

The Juventus star reacted to the claim in a press conference at Old Trafford before his side takes on his former club Man Utd.

The world famous footballer said his “lawyers are very confident” at fighting the allegation by Kathryn Mayorga, 34.

Mayorga reportedly waived her anonymity to accuse the €100million footballer, alleging the former Real Madrid player raped her in 2009.

According to Germany magazine Der Spiegel, she reached an out-of-court settlement with Ronaldo involving a $375,000 (£288,000) payment for agreeing never to go public with the allegations.

But her lawyers are now seeking to declare the non-disclosure agreement void.

Speaking at Old Trafford tonight Ronaldo said: "I know I am an example inside and outside the pitch."

He added: "I am always smiling, a happy man. I play in a fantastic club, have a fantastic family. I have four kids, I am healthy - I have everything, so the rest doesn't interfere on me.

"I am not going to lie on the situation. I am very happy. My lawyers are confident and of course I am too.

CONFIDENT: Ronaldo says he and his lawyers are confident in the face of the rape claim

HAPPY: Ronaldo insists he is still smiling despite the allegation

BACK HOME: Ronaldo spoke at Old Trafford ahead of Juventus v Man Utd tomorrow night

"I enjoy football, my life. The rest, I have people who take care of my life and, of course, the truth is always coming in a first position."

Mayorga reportedly filed a report with Las Vegas police shortly after the alleged incident.

Las Vegas police confirmed they had investigated a complaint in June 2009, but added they had no suspect in the case. This month they said they had reopened the case.

ALL SMILES: Ronaldo inspects the pitch before his team takes on his former club

THOUGHTFUL: Ronaldo taking in the settings of tomorrow's Champions League clash

NEW CLUB: Ronaldo joined Juventus in the summer transfer window from Real Madrid

Ronaldo has vehemently denied the rape allegation, and dismissed the story as "fake news”.

His lawyers claim documents used in Der Spiegel's investigation have been "completely fabricated".

Yet Der Spiegel says it has "no reason" to doubt the authenticity of key documents used in its story.