'Romantic' Cristiano Ronaldo tells of love-split pain

London, Oct 29 : Ace footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has for the first time spoken of his pain of failed relationships.

The 24-year-old star insists he knows what it is like to be dumped.

"I''ve received many more knocks to my legs than my heart,” the Sun quoted him as saying.

"But my heart has been hurt. Women have ended relationships with me many times. Luckily I''m a winner and I''ve always got over it," he added.

However, the Portuguese footballer credited ex-girlfriend Gemma Atkinson with helping him improve his English during his term with Manchester United.

"I learnt to speak English well with my girlfriend there. I lost my embarrassment. She helped a lot," he added.

In an interview to Spanish radio, Ronaldo spoke of his partying in Los Angeles last summer with Paris Hilton.

He said: "During the season I am an exemplary professional. But holidays are to be enjoyed."

He insists he is not arrogant and says, "I''m romantic and sentimental.

"My mum taught me to be true to myself. Who likes me the way I am likes me and who doesn''t, doesn''t. I won''t lose any sleep," he added.

--ANI