Cristiano Ronaldo believes he ‘deserved’ to win the Ballon d’Or this year but is adamant missing out on the award only ‘motivates’ him.
The Portuguese forward was ranked third in this year’s voting behind former Real Madrid teammate Luka Modric and Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann.
“My belief is that I deserve to win it (the Ballon d’Or) each year,” Ronaldo told La Gazzetta Dello Sport, as cited by Diario AS.
“When I do not win it, it is not the end of the world but it is something I work very hard for and the numbers back this up.
“I have amazing friends and family, I play for one of the elite clubs in the world, there is a lot to be happy about.
“I am disappointed with the decision of course but it will continue to motivate me, life continues and I will not go home and cry.
“I want to congratulate Modric because he deserves the honour and I hope next year we will see each other again for the honour.”
