To the winner go the spoils. Cristiano Ronaldo was voted the Ballon d'Or winner for 2013 at a glittering ceremony in Zurich and it is difficult to argue with the selection. Here, we look at why the Real Madrid and Portugal superstar was named as the best footballer in the world...
Monday 13 January 2014 21:10, UK
We look at the compelling case which made Cristiano Ronaldo the undisputed choice for the Ballon d'Or.
"I have to say thank you to all of my team-mates for my club, Real Madrid, and the national team. Without their efforts it would not have been possible. I am very happy. I have to thank everyone who have been involved with me. It is a tremendously emotional moment."
"Seemingly the perennial bridesmaid to the blushing bride that is Leo Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo finally got the love and approbation from the world's footballing cognoscenti winning the 2013 Ballon d'Or in Zurich.
Runner-up to the little Argentinian for three out of the last four years, Ronaldo's greatness as a superstar player has never been in question.
But in these days of high profile image requirements that go beyond just the game, CR7 always seemed to find himself unfairly cast as the villain to the hero that has been the squeaky clean Messi.
Now the balance of the public's perceptions looks to be changing. It feels like the world has gone a bit tired of the same face at the top of the chain."
