Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has said Cristiano Ronaldo is an example of true professionalism that everybody can follow after the forward picked up the Ballon d’Or.
The Portugal captain, who won the prize as a Manchester United player in 2008, picked up the award following an outstanding year in which he scored 69 goals in 59 games in total. Having seen rival Leo Messi win the Ballon d’Or in the last four consecutive years, Ronaldo could not hide his emotions on the stage and struggled to hold back the tears as he thanked his teammates and family.
Speaking at the event in Zurich, Perez said Ronaldo deserved the prestigious individual honour because of he hard work and determination year after year. He added that Ronaldo is the kind of person who wants to improve day after day and will do whatever he can to make that happen.
“Justice has been done because he’s the best player in the world. He’s an example for everybody. We Real Madrid fans are very happy and it’s a special day for us all. When the best player is chosen once a year, it’s an honour to have him in our team,” Perez stated.
He went on to add: “I don’t want to exaggerate, but this is not just about the Ballon d’Or but also about recognition for a leader in football who always want to achieve more and who represents the values that we Real Madrid fans always defend and that is very exciting.”
