Cristiano Ronaldo has reacted after fans voted his 2008 Ballon d’Or triumph the greatest winning performance in the history of the award. France Football unveiled the results of its “Ballon d’Or of All Time” (B.O.A.T.) vote on Wednesday, placing the Portuguese superstar ahead of Lionel Messi in a ranking that celebrates the most outstanding Ballon d’Or-winning seasons.

Ronaldo acknowledged the fans’ role in the distinction through a message on Instagram. “Football belongs to the fans. Thank you to all the supporters around the world — the ‘Ballon d’Or of All Time’ is yours, too,” the former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward wrote. His 2008 victory topped the poll, while Messi’s 2012 triumph finished second and Ronaldo’s 2017 win came third. Messi’s 2023 victory completed the top four.

The ranking further highlights the dominance of the two football icons, who occupied all 12 leading positions in the vote. Only players who had won the Ballon d’Or at least twice qualified for consideration. Ronaldo has claimed the prestigious individual award five times, in 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017, cementing his place among the most decorated players in football history.