Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that the recent allegations of tax fraud against him have taken its toll on him and somewhat dampened his Ballon d'Or victory.
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The Portugal captain, who lifted his fourth Ballon d'Or crown on Monday night, has been under investigation for possible tax fraud related to his image rights.
While Ronaldo was naturally delighted to have won the award yet again, he also revealed that the past few weeks have been difficult for him and his family.
"Of course, it ruined my pleasure (to win the Ballon d'Or), it would be lying to say no," Ronaldo told France Football in an interview.
"I am not a hypocrite, it didn't do anything good to me, the whole process is hard not only for me, but also for the people who are with me: my family, my son, all those who work with me.
"My son goes to school and begins to understand things. 'Try to do things well, to be transparent, I don't have any reason to lie.'
"When you talk about my private life, my friends, the place I went on vacation, the fact that I have or not a girlfriend, that's normal, but when it comes to something serious like this, who has to have with justice... I have my lawyers, the club, the people who work for me... It hurt me because we always try to do things well.
"When they (the European Investigative Collaboration) talk about me, and the way they do it, I don't feel good, There are a lot of innocent people in prison, and I feel like that. You know you didn't do anything wrong, and they tell you that you did something reprehensible. It can't please anyone.
"The truth always breaks out, sooner or later!"
Ronaldo Beats Messi To Ballon d'Or
The former Manchester United star is now one Footballer of the Year title behind FC Barcelona star Lionel Messi in the overall trophy count.
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