Cristiano Ronaldo Reacts After Winning Ballon d’Or of All Time, Says ‘Football Belongs to the Fans’
Cristiano Ronaldo has been crowned the 'Ballon d'Or of All Time' in a historic fan vote celebrating the award's 70th anniversary. The 41-year-old Al Nassr star's iconic 2008 season with Manchester United was recognised as the greatest, beating Lionel Messi's 2012 triumph. Harry Kane also won the 2026 Ballon d'Or in London just days prior.
Global football sensation Cristiano Ronaldo has added another unprecedented honour to his illustrious career, being crowned the 'Ballon d'Or of All Time' after a momentous worldwide public vote. The special award, designed to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the prestigious Ballon d'Or, saw fans recognise Ronaldo's iconic 2008 triumph as the greatest individual season in the award's history. Cristiano Ronaldo's 2008 Season Crowned 'Ballon d'Or of All Time' Over Lionel Messi’s 2012.
Cristiano Ronaldo Thanks Fans
The announcement, made around October 28-29, 2026, sparked widespread discussion among football enthusiasts. The 41-year-old Al Nassr forward took to social media to dedicate the unique accolade to his vast fanbase. "Football belongs to the fans! Thank you to all the fans around the world, the Ballon D'Or of All Time is also yours," Ronaldo posted on Instagram.
A Historic Fan Mandate
The 'Ballon d'Or of All Time', also known as the B.O.A.T (Best Of All Time) award, was orchestrated by UEFA and France Football magazine, inviting supporters globally to cast their votes. The unique voting process involved fans paying a nominal fee of €1 to participate, with nominees limited to players who had won the Ballon d'Or at least twice in their careers.
Ronaldo's victorious 2008 season, during his tenure with Manchester United, was the specific performance highlighted by the voters. That year, the Portuguese maestro led the Red Devils to a memorable Premier League and UEFA Champions League double, showcasing his phenomenal talent by netting an astounding 42 goals across all competitions.
His maiden Ballon d'Or win in 2008 set the stage for a decade of dominance alongside Lionel Messi, making it a fitting choice for this special retrospective award.
Edging Out a Legendary Rival
In a contest that once again pitted him against his enduring rival, Lionel Messi, Ronaldo emerged victorious. Messi's 2012 Ballon d'Or-winning season was voted second, while Ronaldo's own 2017 Ballon d'Or triumph secured third place in the fan poll. Cristiano Ronaldo Hat-Trick Video: Watch Star Portuguese Footballer Score Three Goals During Al-Nassr vs Al-Kholood in Saudi Pro League.
It is important to note that this special 'Ballon d'Or of All Time' is distinct from the regular annual Ballon d'Or award. Just days prior, on Monday, October 26, 2026, England captain Harry Kane was officially crowned the winner of the 2026 Ballon d'Or at a ceremony held in London.
As Cristiano Ronaldo continues to perform at a high level with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, this fan-voted honour further cements his legacy as one of football's truly immortal figures. His dedication to the fans underscores the profound connection he shares with supporters worldwide, a bond that this historic award only strengthens.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 30, 2026 03:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).