Chris Brown still loves Rihanna.

Chris Brown still loves Rihanna.

In his first interview since he assaulted the 'Umbrella' singer in February, the rapper admits he still has feelings for his former girlfriend and is certain they'll always be "friends".

The 20-year-old star told US talk show host Larry King: "I never fell out of love with her. When I look at that police photo of her injuries now, I'm just like wow. I can't believe that actually happened.

“I wish I could have changed that night. I just need to prove to people I can be a role model. That’s not who I am as a person, and that’s not who I promise I want to be.

"I definitely would be affected if she decided to date someone else, but at the end of the day, I mean, we’re not together, so, if she’s happy, I’m cool. We’ll always be friends.”

Chris attacked Rihanna in his car as they left a pre-Grammy Awards party, repeatedly punching her in the face and biting her arm several times.

He later pleaded guilty to assault and was sentenced to six months of community service, 12 months of domestic violence counselling and five years probation.

The judge also issued a restraining order which requires him to stay at least 100 yards from Rihanna for five years.

In the TV interview – which will air in the US tomorrow night (02.09.09) – Chris states he thinks his punishment is fair, adding: "Everything comes with consequences. They want me to pick up trash remove graffiti. I’m a hard worker. It’s something I’m willing to do.”

Chris' mother Joyce Hawkins sat next to her son throughout the interview, describing him as a "non-violent" person and discusses the abuse she suffered at the hands of Chris' father.