By Osagie Alonge
For the second time in his career, Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has won the Ballon d’Or, beating rival Barcelona’s Lionel Messi.
‘There are no words to describe this moment’, he said as he picked up his award, shedding tears.
‘First of all I have to say a great thanks to all of my team-mates with the club and the national team. Without all of their efforts this would not have been possible. I am very happy; it is very difficult to win this award’, Ronaldo said.
Ronaldo dedicated the award to the later great footballer and Portuguese legend Eusebio.
He also dedicated the award to his ‘girlfriend, friends and son’.
Official Breakdown of Votes
Official breakdown of the voting for the 2013 Ballon d’Or: Cristiano Ronaldo (27.99%), Messi (24.72%) y Franck Ribéry (23.36%)
Ronaldo’s votes: 1. Radamel Falcao. 2. Gareth Bale. 3. Mesut Ozil.
Messi’s votes: 1. Andres Iniesta. 2. Xavi. 3. Neymar
