Ronaldo’s 2008 Campaign Named Greatest Ballon d’Or Season as Portuguese Star Hails Fans

Cristiano Ronaldo has thanked football fans across the globe after his outstanding 2008 season was selected as the greatest Ballon d’Or-winning campaign of all time in a special public vote.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward won the inaugural Ballon d’Or of All Time (BOAT) poll organised by France Football as part of celebrations marking the prestigious award’s 70th anniversary.

The announcement was made on Wednesday after supporters voted for the best individual season among past Ballon d’Or winners.

Taking to X on Thursday to celebrate the recognition, Ronaldo acknowledged the role of his supporters and dedicated the achievement to them.

“Football belongs to the fans! Thank you to all the fans around the world, the Ballon D’Or of All Time is also yours,” he posted.

The campaign that earned Ronaldo the top spot was his remarkable 2007–08 season at Manchester United.

During that campaign, the Portuguese captain scored 42 goals in all competitions, including 31 in the Premier League and seven in the Champions League.

His goals played a crucial role in Manchester United’s success as the club won both the Premier League and Champions League titles.

Ronaldo also found the net in the Champions League final against Chelsea, helping United secure the European crown.

His impressive league performances earned him the European Golden Shoe, while his individual achievements were capped by his first Ballon d’Or award later in 2008.

The 41-year-old went on to claim the prestigious honour four additional times, winning it in 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017 to finish his career with five Ballon d’Or titles.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi’s 2012 campaign secured second place in the all-time poll, followed by Ronaldo’s 2017 season in third position.

Messi’s 2023 campaign came fourth, while Ronaldo’s 2016 season completed the top five.

The remaining positions in the top 10 featured Ronaldo’s 2014 and 2013 campaigns, as well as Messi’s 2015, 2011 and 2009 seasons.

The Ballon d’Or of All Time poll was organised specifically to celebrate the award’s 70th anniversary and was based on public voting rather than the presentation of a new trophy.

Voting opened on October 1 and closed on October 27, with the results officially announced on October 28.

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