Back-rower says the past three months have been the toughest of his career.
Ben Te’o has sought to clear the air in the wake of his assault charges being dropped by Queensland Police.
The South Sydney player was at the centre of a scandal that rocked the NRL earlier this season, after Kate Lewis said the former Broncos star assaulted her at the home of former teammate Corey Norman.
“Over the past three months, it has been very difficult to watch my name and character publicly criticised in response to allegations that I knew to be false,” Te’o said in a statement.
“The allegations and the many reports issued by media outlets have placed a question mark over my reputation and my public image.
“The allegations made against me by Kate Lewis and reported by various media outlets have caused me considerable distress, both on a personal and professional level.
“From the outset, I have denied any wrongdoing and have been up front, open and honest with the Queensland Police Service, the NRL’s Integrity Unit and my Club.
“I consider that I have given my full cooperation to these authorities during the investigation process which has now run its course.”
Te’o said the night of the alleged incident was not totally without drama but again denied that he left Lewis with a swollen face and a black eye.
“I again state that I acted appropriately on the evening in question and did not strike Ms Lewis as alleged,” he said.
:I believe that the outcome of the various investigations has validated my version of the events of that evening.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Queensland Police Service, the NRL’s Integrity Unit and my Club for approaching the matter professionally, particularly given the pressure created by the media attention given to this matter.”
The Queensland player said he was now pursuing legal advice on the incident, but considered the the matter closed.
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