Cristiano Ronaldo has done it. The saga of Ronaldo's legendary legacy continues as the Portuguese star and Al-Nassr captain has won the first-ever Ballon d'Or of All Time. After a month-long voting process, Ronaldo, 41, finished ahead of Lionel Messi to win the prestigious award handed out by France Football.
Ronaldo was recognized for his 2007-08 season at Manchester United, where he contributed to the team's Premier League and Champions League success. Ronaldo had an incredible 2007-2008 season when he scored 42 goals across all competitions and won his first Ballon d'Or.
Despite his ongoing tension with Portugal's soccer federation, Portugal congratulated Ronaldo on his victory. “From 2008 to eternity. The greatest Ballon d'Or winner of all time is Portuguese. Congratulations, captain!” Portugal FA wrote on social media.
Ronaldo's former club Manchester United also joined in the celebrations and shared a post on social media. “[Cristiano Ronaldo] has won the [Ballon d'Or] Of All Time award for his iconic 2008,” United wrote.
Shortly after, Ronaldo also shared an image of his 2008 Ballon d'Or win on social media and wrote, “Football belongs to the fans! Thank you to all the fans around the world, the Ballon D’Or of All Time is also yours.” [Quotes translated by Instagram]
Despite Messi winning more individual Ballon d'Ors than Ronaldo, the Portuguese forward has now secured the Ballon d'Or of all time. The veteran has a total of five Ballon d'Or awards, four at Real Madrid (2013, 2014, 2016, 2017) and one with Manchester United. Ronaldo is also very close to 1,000 career goals and is the leading men's international scorer with 143 goals in 225 games.
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