by Tommaso Dimiddio, reporter

5 FIFA Ballon d’Or, 5 UEFA Champions Leagues, one rape allegation.

Cristiano Ronaldo is arguably one of the best football players of all time and, more specifically, of our age.

He has played for some of the most prestigious teams in the world like Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.

His rivalry with Lionel Messi has divided millions of fans around the world and yet, his recent football performances or last summer’s transfer move to Juventus are not the reason why his name is on top of these days’ news agenda.

Less than a week ago, Las Vegas Police has re-opened an investigation on an allegation of sexual assault made by Kathryin Mayorga in 2009.

In a press conference on Wednesday, the former teacher’s lawyer has said she was inspired to speak out by the #MeToo movement and she suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.

After initially defining the allegation, which was first reported in a German magazine, as “fake news”, Ronaldo issued a statement on his Twitter account where he firmly denies all the accusations.

“Rape is an abominable crime that goes against everything that I am and believe in”, are some of his words.

Last night, in a tweet, Juventus said: “Cristiano Ronaldo has shown in recent months his great professionalism and dedication, which is appreciated by everyone at Juventus.

“The events allegedly dating back to almost 10 years ago do not change this opinion, which is shared by anyone who has come into contact with this great champion.”

While CR7 is not in the Portugal squad for this month’s internationals against Poland and Scotland, both Nike and EA Sports are concerned by their frontman’s disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation.

The Portuguese champion is certainly not the first sports public figure who could potentially ruin his extraordinary career with such a shameful scandal.

Everyone who loves this game hopes that these accusations will end up to nothing as Cristiano Ronaldo not only is a great football player, but also a role model for children who aim to play in the future.