Fairfax Media reports Stewart was paid out regarding a story which appeared on the Daily Telegraph website on June 23, 2016.

The article stated Stewart was weighing up a move to France after chatting with coach Trent Barrett about claims of match-fixing as his on-field performance was being affected.

The article was promptly uploaded onto a Sea Eagles fan site www.silvertails.com.au before being taken down from the Daily Telegraph’s website.

Stewart argued the story suggested he had engaged in match-fixing which was being investigated by police.

Fairfax Media said Stewart said the article had brought him into hatred and "gravely injured ... his character, reputation and occupation as a professional football player".

The court found a verdict in favour of Stewart, however, the settlement terms remain confidential.

Police set up Strike Force Nuralda in September 2016 to investigate allegations that six Manly players had been paid $50,000 to fix matches during the 2015 NRL season.

Police failed to find any evidence of match-fixing.

They subsequently investigated inside information and salary cap breaches.

The payout is Stewart’s second successful settlement against News Limited after being awarded a sizeable payout against the company relating to a 2009 article about his alleged sexual assault of a 17-year-old girl.

Stewart was acquitted of all charges.

The 32-year-old two-time Manly Premiership-winner was forced into retirement through injury at the end of the 2016 season.