After giving a European Championship title to Portugal and another Champions League trophy to Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo ends the year with something just for himself — his fourth world player of the year award.
Ronaldo on Monday won his third Ballon d’Or award, which this year is being handed out by France Football magazine separately from FIFA. Ronaldo also took home the Ballon d’Or prize in 2013 and 2014, and the FIFA award in 2008 while still playing for Manchester United. The Portugal forward is also in contention for FIFA’s prize this year, along with Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann.
Only Ronaldo and Messi have been voted the best in the world since 2007, when Kaka won the prize. Messi won a record fifth award last year.
“For me it’s a great honour to receive my fourth golden ball,” Ronaldo said in a pre-recorded video. “I never thought in my mind to win (it) four times, so I’m so pleased, I’m so happy. I have to thank all my teammates, the national team, Real Madrid, all the people, all the players who helped me win this individual award.”
France Football will announce the runner-ups to Ronaldo later Monday.