Oklahoma Sooners running back Joe Mixon issued a statement on Tuesday, apologizing for punching a female Oklahoma student in 2014.
"For the last two years, my lawyers have advised me against speaking publicly about an incident that occurred very shortly after I arrived in Norman," Mixon wrote in a statement sent to The Oklahoman. "Today, I want to say what everyone deserves to hear from me about this matter: I am sorry.
"I apologize to Amelia Molitor and the friends who were with her that night. I apologize to my teammates, coaches, the University of Oklahoma and its fans. I apologize to my family and friends. I realize I let a lot of people down. I apologize to all those I disappointed or hurt."
After an altercation between the two at a sandwich shop near Oklahoma's campus, Mixon punched Molitor, fracturing four bones in her face. Mixon was eventually charged with a misdemeanor and suspended for the 2014 season.
Mixon suggested in his statement that racial slurs were hurled at him, which he says initiated the incident.
"I was not drinking," he said. "I have never had a drink in my life. At the end of the night, a group of apparently drunk people started harassing us. Some of my teammates were wise enough to leave. I did not, and I am sorry."
Molitor later sued Mixon in civil court for negligence, willful and wanton misconduct, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. On Monday, an Oklahoma City federal judge dismissed two-thirds of the lawsuit, according to The Oklahoman, leaving only her claim of intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Mixon is second in the country in all-purpose yards this season for the Sooners, who are ranked seventh the country.