Cristiano Ronaldo has Lionel Messi in his sights after winning his third Ballon d’Or, beating Messi and Manuel Neuer to the award in Zurich.
The Real Madrid man was the long odds-on favourite to pick up the accolade and revealed he is now targeting Messi’s four titles, after receiving the trophy from former Barcelona player Thierry Henry.
“It’s been an unforgettable year for me personally and to win an award like this is something unique. It brings about different emotions,” declared the Portuguese in his acceptance speech.
“This motivates me even more to pick up titles for my team and also individually. I’d like to dedicate this to my family, to my mother, to my brothers and sisters, and to my father, who I can see up there.
“Thanks to everyone who voted for me, to my teammates, my Coach, the President and all who are associated with Real Madrid. This is a dream come true.
“I’d also like to thank everyone who has made me a better player, my national team and everybody in Portugal.
“I never thought I’d win three Ballon d’Ors but I’m not stopping here. I want to catch Messi.”
Ronaldo went on to say that last year had been “a brilliant one” and the best moment was “winning the Champions League”.
Ronaldo’s other Ballon d’Or successes came last year while with Real Madrid and back in 2008 when he was a Manchester United player.
