Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo for the fifth time in his career won the "Golden Ball". According to the number of these awards, the footballer of Madrid "Real" equaled the Argentine Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo won the "Golden Ball" in 2008 (then he played for Manchester United), in 2013, in 2014 and 2016, and also repeatedly nominated for this award.

Earlier this year, the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) recognized him as the player of the year.

The last player from the UK who received the "Golden Ball" was Michael Owen in 2001.

"Golden Ball" is awarded since 1956, the prize was established by the magazine France Football. The winner of the award is chosen according to the results of the voting of sports journalists.

Since 2010, "Golden Ball" was held in conjunction with the "Player of the Year FIFA" and changed its name to "FIFA's Golden Ball". However, last year France Football ceased cooperation with the Football Association and again began to award the award itself. This is reported by the BBC Ukrainian Service.