Cristiano Ronaldo on Thursday thanked supporters around the world, saying the game belongs to them and that a fan-driven all-time Ballon d’Or is theirs as well.
“Football belongs to the fans! Thanks to all the fans around the world. The Ballon d’Or of All Time is also yours,” the Portuguese forward said, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, who relayed the message.
The remarks come as France Football’s Ballon d’Or of All Time fan poll continues to draw attention among followers of the sport.
Tribute to supporters
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, framed the message as a tribute to the people behind his career rather than a comment on the poll’s outcome. He did not name any rival or give a view on the ranking.
Widely seen as one of the greatest players in football history, he has built a vast global following through his performances for clubs and for Portugal.
