Cristiano Ronaldo wants to become the greatest player football has ever seen after winning the 2013 Ballon d’Or.
The Real Madrid forward was presented with the award in Zurich by Pele and, with tears in his eyes, thanked those closest to him and set out his aim for the rest of his career.
“There are no words to describe this moment. Thanks to my Real Madrid teammates,” Ronaldo began.
“[Thanks to] the president, my girlfriend, my family, and my son.
“My goal is to write an unpublished page in football history as one of the best players ever. That’s my goal and I’m on track to do so.”
Ronaldo was asked by the Press about what it meant to be the first Portuguese to win the award twice, with only Luis Figo and Eusebio also claiming the prize from the Iberian country.
“My idea was not to be the first in my country,” Ronaldo replied.
“I want a place in the history of the world, not only to be part of the history of my country.
“Anyone who knows me knows I fight all year to compete with the best.”
“I will try to win the Ballon d’Or again next year if I can.
“Obviously [Franck] Ribery and [Lionel] Messi could have won, but it was my turn.
“I haven’t talked to much because I’m so happy.”
Asked about the tears that fell during his speech – which paid tribute to the late Eusebio and Nelson Mandela – Ronaldo revealed he was overwhelmed by the occasion.
“They were sincere, pure tears, of a person who is happy.
“Perhaps it was because I saw my Mother crying, or because my son ran into my arms. These were things I did not expect.”
