Kaka Edges Out Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo has been beaten to the prestigious Ballon d'Or award by AC Milan playmaker Kaka.

United's Portuguese winger finished in second place in the rankings decided by football journalists, collecting 277 points to Kaka's 444, ahead of Barcelona starlet Lionel Messi.

The award, regarded as the most prestigious individual accolade around, this year recognises the best player in world football, having previously been known as the European Player of the Year award.

Kaka has long been touted as favourite for the award after his hugely inspirational role in Milan's triumphant Champions League campaign last season.

The Brazilian put United to the sword in the semi-finals, scoring twice at Old Trafford and once again at the San Siro as Milan ran out 5-3 winners on aggregate.

He, Ronaldo and Messi are again locking horns for the FIFA World Player of the Year award on December 17, with Kaka once more favourite to take the gong.