Cristiano Ronaldo becomes a father?

Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly confirmed on Twitter that he is a father for the first time.

However, the announcement, which was provided as a link on the football star's official page, does not make it clear who the baby boy's mother is, with the News of the World suggesting that it is a hoax.

The statement, which was also posted on Ronaldo's website, said: "It is with great joy and emotion that I inform I have recently become father to a baby boy.

"As agreed with the baby's mother, who prefers to have her identity kept confidential, my son will be under my exclusive guardianship."

Ronaldo has recently been romantically linked to 24-year-old Russian swimwear model Irina Shayk.