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Cristiano Ronaldo has narrowly defeated Lionel Messi in a monthlong public online vote to win France Football’s “Ballon d’Or of All Time,” adding another extraordinary achievement to one of soccer’s most decorated careers.
The Portugal Football Federation congratulated the 41-year-old forward after the result was announced on October 29, 2026. Ronaldo was recognized for his outstanding 2007-08 campaign with Manchester United, when he helped the club secure both the Premier League title and the UEFA Champions League.
Cristiano Ronaldo Wins a Historic All-Time Honor
Ronaldo’s winning season remains one of the defining individual campaigns in modern football. He scored 42 goals in all competitions for Manchester United, delivering crucial performances as the English club completed a memorable domestic and European double.
That form helped Ronaldo claim his first traditional Ballon d’Or award. Nearly two decades later, fans selected the same season as the foundation for his latest recognition, placing him just ahead of Messi in a closely contested online vote.
“Football belongs to the fans!” Ronaldo wrote on social media after the announcement. He added that the award was also a tribute to supporters around the world, highlighting the global audience that has followed his career from Sporting CP and Manchester United to Real Madrid, Juventus and Al Nassr.
Portugal and Former Clubs Celebrate Ronaldo
The Portugal Football Federation praised its captain in a message celebrating his lasting influence on the sport. The federation described Ronaldo as the greatest Ballon d’Or winner of all time and linked his achievement to his Portuguese identity and international legacy.
Manchester United and Real Madrid, two of Ronaldo’s former clubs, also acknowledged the latest honor. His years at both teams produced some of the most impressive goal-scoring records and trophy-winning moments of his career.
- Ronaldo won his first Ballon d’Or after the 2007-08 season.
- He has collected five traditional Ballon d’Or awards.
- Four of those awards came during his time at Real Madrid, in 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017.
- He remains the leading men’s international scorer with 143 goals in 225 appearances.
Ronaldo’s Remarkable Legacy Continues
The latest recognition arrives as Ronaldo continues to approach another historic milestone: 1,000 career goals. His longevity, scoring consistency and ability to remain relevant across different eras have kept him at the center of soccer’s biggest discussions.
At 41, Ronaldo is still playing for Al Nassr and remains a leading figure for Portugal. His international record has already set him apart, while his club career includes major honors in England, Spain and Italy.
The comparison with Messi remains one of the sport’s most enduring debates. Messi has won multiple Ballon d’Or awards of his own and built a historic career with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami and Argentina. Ronaldo’s latest fan-backed victory gives his supporters another powerful argument in the debate over the greatest player of all time.
Unlike the traditional Ballon d’Or, which is determined through a formal voting process involving journalists, the “Ballon d’Or of All Time” recognition was decided through a monthlong public online vote. That format made the result a direct reflection of fan sentiment and helped generate renewed discussion around Ronaldo’s most influential seasons.
Why the 2007-08 Season Still Matters
Ronaldo’s 2007-08 campaign marked his transformation from a gifted winger into one of the world’s most dangerous goal scorers. His 42 goals, explosive athleticism and decisive performances helped Manchester United dominate both England and Europe.
The season also established the platform for his move to the top of global football. Ronaldo went on to win four more traditional Ballon d’Or awards at Real Madrid, where he became the club’s all-time leading scorer and added further Champions League success.
For supporters, the new honor is more than a celebration of one season. It represents the scale of Ronaldo’s influence, the intensity of his rivalry with Messi and the lasting emotional connection he has built with fans across generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Ballon d’Or of All Time?
Cristiano Ronaldo won the fan-backed “Ballon d’Or of All Time” vote, narrowly finishing ahead of Lionel Messi.
Which season earned Ronaldo the recognition?
Ronaldo was recognized for his 2007-08 Manchester United season, when he scored 42 goals and helped the club win the Premier League and Champions League.
How many traditional Ballon d’Or awards has Ronaldo won?
Ronaldo has won five traditional Ballon d’Or awards. Four came during his time with Real Madrid, while his first was awarded after the 2007-08 season.
How many international goals has Ronaldo scored?
Ronaldo is the leading men’s international scorer, with 143 goals in 225 appearances for Portugal.
