Manchester United winger Cristiano has been named as the 2008 Ballon d'Or award winner. After finishing out as runner up to Kaka in 2007, the Portuguese beat competition from Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Liverpool striker Fernando Torres to win the prestigious award for the first time in his career. The award, which is presented by French football magazine France Football, is decided by the votes of 96 journalists from allover the world and chosen from a shortlist of 50 players. Ronaldo won 77 votes with a total of 446 points, followed by Messi with 281 and Torres on 179. The prize will cap Ronaldo's brilliant year, in which he scored 42 goals in all competitions for United, helping the club to win the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League titles. The 23-year-old was earlier named FIFPro World player of the year, Professional Footballers' Association and Football Writers prizes for best player in the Premiership, as well as the European golden boot and best Champions League player. Gratitude Upon the announcement, Ronaldo couldn't hide his delight by winning the award, showing appreciation to everyone who helped him land the prize. "It's one of the greatest days of my life. I dreamed about it as a kid,” Ronaldo told France Football. "Those who know me, who live with me, know that this is finally a dream come true for me. "To the people who mentioned my name, I say thank you. Thank you also to my team-mates." Ronaldo is now the third Portuguese player to win the Ballon d'Or after Luis Figo in 2000 and Eusebio in 1965.
