Ronaldo Awarded Prestigious Ballon d'Or Trophy

Cristiano Ronaldo has been awarded the prestigious Ballon d’Or trophy.

The most coveted individual honour in world football, the award recognises Ronaldo’s outstanding performances over the past 12 months.

"I dreamt of this when I was younger," he said. "It's a great day for me and my family."

The Portuguese winger scored 42 goals last season on the way to domestic and European glory with the Reds and was the resounding favourite to win the trophy.

After France Football’s confirmation in the early hours of Tuesday morning, the 23-year-old joins United legends George Best, Denis Law and Bobby Charlton on the award’s honours roll.

Recent winners include Kaka (AC Milan, 2007), Fabio Cannavaro (Juventus/Real Madrid, 2006) and Ronaldinho (Barcelona, 2005).

Ronny is the 42nd different player to pick up the prize, and the third Portuguese after Eusebio’s victory in 1965 and Figo's win in 2000.

"The Ballon d'Or has been won by two great Portuguese players and for me to be part of that history is a great feeling," he added.

Ballon d'Or
Previously known as the European Footballer of the Year award and presented only to those playing for clubs in Europe, the Ballon d'Or is now open to players around the world.

Last five winners:
2007 – Kaka
2006 – Fabio Cannavaro
2005 – Ronaldinho
2004 – Andriy Shevchenko
2003 – Pavel Nedved

Other winners from English clubs:
2001 – Michael Owen (Liverpool)
1968 – George Best (United)
1965 – Bobby Charlton (United)
1964 – Denis Law (United)
1956 – Stanley Matthews (Blackpool)