We’ll take a look at the most prestigious awards that make Cristiano Ronaldo stand out from the rest.
Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the greatest football players ever. His exceptional talent and skill have won him countless individual accolades. These prizes recognize his outstanding performances, goal-scoring prowess, and impact on the game. From the FIFA Ballon d’Or to the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award, Ronaldo has consistently proven himself as a top player on the global stage. In this article, we will explore the top five individual awards won by CR7. We’ll highlight his remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport.
5. Player of the Century (2001-2020)
In December 2022, Cristiano Ronaldo achieved a monumental feat. One that strengthened his status as one of the greatest football players ever. The forward won the Globe Soccer’s Player of the Century award for the period spanning 2001 to 2020. He beat his long-standing rival Lionel Messi in the process. The victory was particularly significant. It signaled a shift in the balance of power between the two footballing greats. While Messi has long been regarded as Ronaldo’s equal, CR7’s win gave him the edge. It established him as the dominant player of the 21st century.
4. PFA Players’ Player of the Year
The PFA Players’ Player of the Year award holds great significance. It is a prize decided on the votes from fellow professional players in England. Cristiano Ronaldo won this award twice during his days as a Premier League player. First in the 2006/07 season, and again in 2007/08. His skill, dedication, and leadership earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. It was a testament to his exceptional impact on Manchester United.
3. European Golden Shoe
The European Golden Shoe is an esteemed award presented to the leading scorer in the European leagues. Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed this prestigious honor four times. His incredible goal-scoring ability and relentless drive have helped him hit the back of the net at a remarkable rate. The Portuguese first won the award with Manchester United in 2007/08. He collected the accolade three more times during his spell as a Real Madrid player. These triumphs came in the 2010/11, 2013/14, and 2014/15 seasons.
2. UEFA Men’s Player of the Year
Cristiano Ronaldo has won the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award a record three times. He first took home the award in 2014, before winning it back-to-back in 2016 and 2017. The only other player to win the award more than once is Lionel Messi, who won it in 2011 and 2015.
1. Ballon d’Or
The FIFA Ballon d’Or is considered the most prestigious individual award in football. Cristiano Ronaldo has won this award not once, but five times. It’s a true testament to the exceptional performances and goal-scoring prowess he has displayed over the years. Ronaldo first won the prize in 2008 during his first spell at Manchester United. He won the award on four more occasions, this time at Real Madrid between 2013 and 2017.