Cristiano Ronaldo capped a brilliant year by being crowned winner of the Ballon d’Or for a fourth time in Paris on Monday night.
The Portugal and Real Madrid forward topped the poll of 173 journalists worldwide to take home France Football magazine’s coveted award ahead.
In doing so he beat out the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Luis Suarez and perennial rival Lionel Messi.
The 31-year-old, who was not there to collect the award in person due to Real Madrid’s Club World Cup commitments, described his latest triumph as ‘a dream come true.’
“I never imagined winning this trophy four times,’ he added. ‘I’m really happy and fulfilled.
When it’s the first time, the emotion is always special. But I I feel today like I did in 2008.
I have the opportunity to thank all of my team-mates, the national team, Real Madrid, all of the people and players who helped me to win this individual award.
As you can imagine I feel so proud and happy to receive this amazing and beautiful ball, I am so happy.”
