Accusations of rape have been levelled against footballer Cristiano Ronaldo.

That's according to a report by German publication Der Spiegel, which alleges that the Juventus player raped Kathryn Mayorga in Las Vegas in 2009. Ronald has denied the accusations against him.

"I firmly deny the accusations being issued against me," he said on Twitter.

"Rape is an abominable crime that goes against everything that I am and believe in. Keen as I may be to clear my name, I refuse to feed the media spectacle created by people seeking to promote themselves at my expense."

Eurogamer has spoken to publisher EA about the accusations, due to the fact that Ronaldo is the cover star of this year's FIFA 19, with the publisher saying the accusations are "concerning" and that it is keeping a close eye on this situation.

"We have seen the concerning report that details allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo," a spokesperson said.

"We are closely monitoring the situation, as we expect cover athletes and ambassadors to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with EA's values."

Sports apparel firm Nike - who has a licensing deal with the footballer - has also issued a statement on the matter, telling The Associated Press: "We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation"