Cristiano Ronaldo beats Lionel Messi to win fourth Ballon d’Or 2016

Cristiano Ronaldo has beaten off competition from Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann to win the 2016 Ballon d’Or.

The 31-year-old superstar won the award off the back of a sensational triumph at Euro 2016 after he captained Portugal in their victory over France in the final back in July.


Ronaldo also had a major part in Real Madrid successfully lifting the Champions League last season.

It means Ronaldo has now won the Ballon d’Or on four occasions, just one behind Barcelona and Argentina legend Messi who remains on five.

He adds to the titles he won in 2008, 2013 and 2014.

The Ballon d’Or is awarded to the player considered the best in Europe and is voted by 173 journalists from around the globe.

Ronaldo was obviously elated to pick up the trophy – but the dab from his son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., was unforgivable.

Ronaldo was also on hand to say a few words after picking up the prestigious award.
‘Great honour to receive my fourth Ballon d’Or,’ said Ronaldo.

‘The emotion is like the first one, it’s the dreaming come true again.