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Cristiano Ronaldo claims inaugural Ballon d'Or 'B.O.A.T' award over Lionel Messi

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 28, 2026, 7:45 PM

Last updated Oct 28, 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo claims inaugural Ballon d'Or 'B.O.A.T' award over Lionel Messi

Summary

Cristiano Ronaldo won the fan voting for the inaugural Ballon d'Or 'B.O.A.T' award, which recognizes the greatest Ballon d'Or winner of all time. Ronaldo's 2008 season, during which he scored 42 goals, topped the poll, while Messi's 2012 season placed second. The voting process, open from October 1 to October 27, saw significant participation, with over 5,000 votes cast. Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas were recently awarded the 2026 men's and women's Ballon d'Or. Fans who voted received a photograph and a chance to win tickets to the next ceremony.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Ronaldo's 2008 season was voted the best of all time.
•Messi's 2012 season finished in second place.
•Voting took place from October 1 to October 27.
•5,009 fans voted more than once in the process.
•Kane and Putellas won the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortly before.

Latest Updates

7:45 PMYahoo Sports — Cristiano Ronaldo beats Lionel Messi to ‘BOAT’ award
7:12 PMYahoo Sports — Cristiano Ronaldo beats Lionel Messi for inaugural Ballon d'Or 'B.O.A.T' award

What they're saying

"
Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo has staved off stiff competition, to scoop the award for the ‘Greatest Ballon d’Or of all time’. As much was made official on Wednesday.The 2026 Ballon d’O...
— Yahoo Sports