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Cristiano Ronaldo has beaten longtime rival Lionel Messi to win the symbolic ‘Ballon d’Or of All Time’ recognition after football supporters voted his 2008 campaign with Manchester United as the greatest Ballon d’Or-winning season in history.
The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward expressed his gratitude to supporters worldwide after the result was announced as part of celebrations marking the Ballon d’Or’s 70th anniversary.
Ronaldo took to social media to thank fans for their support, making it clear that he considers the recognition a shared achievement.
“Football belongs to the fans! Thank you to all the fans around the world, the Ballon D’Or of All Time is also yours,” he wrote.
Ronaldo’s memorable 2008 campaign
Ronaldo’s outstanding 2007/08 season at Manchester United was selected ahead of several historic campaigns, including Lionel Messi’s remarkable 2012 year.
During that season, the Portuguese superstar scored 42 goals in all competitions, helping Manchester United win both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.
His performances earned him his first Ballon d’Or in 2008 and established him as one of the leading players in world football.
Messi’s 2012 campaign, during which he scored a record 91 goals for club and country in the calendar year, finished second in the public vote. Ronaldo’s 2017 Ballon d’Or-winning season placed third.
A symbolic recognition, not another official Ballon d’Or
The special fan-voting initiative was organised to celebrate the award’s 70th anniversary. It allowed supporters to select the greatest Ballon d’Or-winning campaign.
However, the recognition does not represent an additional official Ballon d’Or trophy, nor does it change the official career tally. Ronaldo has won five Ballon d’Or awards, while Messi holds the record with eight.
The result reflects the choices of participating supporters in the special poll rather than a definitive verdict on the greatest footballer of all time.
Nevertheless, Ronaldo’s latest recognition adds another memorable chapter to his remarkable career and highlights the lasting influence of his historic years at Manchester United.
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