Giggs admits to lifelong infidelities in assault trial

LONDON－Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs admitted Tuesday to being unfaithful in all his past romantic relationships but denied ever being violent toward partners, as he gave evidence over charges of assault and coercive control of an ex-girlfriend.

Taking the stand for the first time in his week-old trial, the 48-year-old denied physically assaulting former partner, PR agent Kate Greville, nearly two years ago or controlling her during their rocky years-long relationship.

But under questioning from his own lawyer, the Welshman admitted to a lifetime of infidelities, agreeing that he was "a flirt by nature "and unable to "resist" pursuing attractive women despite being married or in a relationship.

Giggs is on trial at Manchester Crown Court over claims he subjected 36-year-old Greville to a "litany of abuse, both physical and psychological" which included head-butting her in the face as she tried to end their relationship.

The former manager of the Wales national team, whose career has been upended by the charges, faces a five-year jail term if convicted.

As the prosecution rested its case Tuesday morning, jurors heard details from a hand-written prepared statement he gave to police after he was arrested on suspicion of assaulting Greville and her sister, Emma, in November 2020.

In it, he described a tussle between the trio over a mobile phone during which Giggs said he "may have caught her and her sister".

"But at no time was there any attempt to harm either of them," the statement added.

Giggs said the pair's more than four-year relationship－which began while he was married to the mother of his two children－had its "ups and downs".

"Despite allegations of violence, I often walk away from incidents," the former winger insisted in the police statement, adding: "I would never react with violence."

He also told officers in another later statement, which was also read in court: "I will not accept that my behavior toward my former partner has been in any way controlling or coercive."

AFP