Cristiano Ronaldo has said that winning the Ballon d’Or makes him hungrier for more success with Real Madrid.
In an interview conducted with France Football and reported by Marca, Ronaldo also revealed that he sometimes finds life in the spotlight difficult and tries to live like anyone else.
“I’m not perfect. I’m human, flesh and blood,” the Portugal captain said.
“I cry and I have problems.
“When I have said something wrong I’ve apologised. Eventually I learn from my mistakes.”
Ronaldo added that he felt some onlookers had a negative perception of him because he is “young, handsome and rich,” but that it is changing now.
“I have the impression the public understands me better and realise how much I work.
“But I prefer to talk about what is happening on the field than off it.”
Ronaldo admitted insults from opposition fans can way heavy on him but he feels he is getting better at brushing them off.
But leading a normal family life is not easy, he feels, and is already looking ahead to the day he retires.
“Sometimes it’s hard to have a normal life, although I do live well.
“When I have finished my career I will have time to enjoy it more. Now it’s not so easy.
“I try to control my privacy as much as possible. I’ll enjoy things more when there’s another Cristiano to take my place.”
Ronaldo noted that one of his hobbies when not training is maintaining his English skills, developed during his time at Manchester United.
On the subject of the Ballon d’Or and the tears that flowed when he was presented with the award, Ronaldo insisted they were genuine and not for show.
“Winning was a relief. The award is for professionalism, hard work and competitiveness.
“But I’m not going to rest on my laurels.
“Both with Madrid and Portugal, I want even more.
“All players dream of the Ballon d’Or, but it is not the end.”
