Ronaldo Beats Messi To Win Ballon d’Or Of All Time Award

Cristiano Ronaldo has beaten long-time rival Lionel Messi to be recognised for the greatest Ballon d’Or triumph in history, with his 2008 victory named the Ballon d’Or of All Time (B.O.A.T).

The Portuguese forward claimed the first of his five Ballon d’Or awards in 2008 while playing for Manchester United, following a remarkable season in which he helped the club win the Premier League and Champions League.

His maiden triumph has now been voted the greatest individual Ballon d’Or victory, ahead of the achievements of Messi, who holds the record for the most wins with eight.

The B.O.A.T award, introduced by the Ballon d’Or organisers this year, allowed fans to choose the most outstanding triumph among players who have won the prestigious individual honour multiple times. Each eligible player’s Ballon d’Or victories were considered separately.

Voting opened on 1 October and closed on 27 October, with fans required to pay €1 to cast their votes.

Unlike the Super Ballon d’Or, the B.O.A.T initiative was designed specifically to recognise the greatest individual triumph among multiple-time winners of football’s most prestigious individual award.

Although Ronaldo emerged as the winner, the recognition does not come with a physical trophy.

The announcement came two days after England captain Harry Kane won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to claim the men’s award.

Ronaldo’s latest recognition adds another distinction to his illustrious career and renews the debate over his enduring rivalry with Messi, whose record eight Ballon d’Or titles remain unmatched.