Cristiano Ronaldo has described 2016 as an “unforgettable” year, after he won the Ballon D’or prize for the fourth time in his career.
The Real Madrid and Portugal star accrued 745 points from a jury of 173 international journalists, to finish ahead of rival Lionel Messi.
In 2016, Ronaldo won the Champions League with Madrid and captained his country to their first international title at Euro 2016.
And the 31-year-old, who has 51 goals to his name for club and country so far this year, told L’Equipe: “Winning the Euros, the Champions League and now the Ballon d’Or is unforgettable.
“This year was the best of my career, both at an individual and at team level.
“For me, it’s a great honour to receive my fourth Ballon d’Or. The emotion is the same as in the past. The dream becomes reality.
“Winning a first trophy with Portugal was still missing on my CV. It was one of the most important moments of my life. I will obviously not forget about the Champions League win either.
“The difference is that Madrid are used to winning trophies, Portugal had never won a major trophy. I do not want to disrespect the Champions League, but winning the Euros with Portugal was something special, on another level.
“I must thank all my team-mates. You can imagine how proud I am to receive this magnificent trophy.
“What is more important, win a fifth one or win again with Portugal? I think both are important to me. I will try to give the best of myself, as every time.
“The team always comes first for me. I would not have won this trophy without Real Madrid and Portugal. But I would like to enjoy this moment today, I am very happy.”
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