Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the Ballon d’Or world footballer of the year for the third time and the second year in a row.
The Portugal captain who plays for Real Madrid beat Lionel Messi, Barcelona’s forward, and Manuel Neuer, Bayern Munich’s goalkeeper.
Ronaldo won 37.66% of the vote. Messi received 15.76% while Neuer was given 15.72%.
Messi has won the award for four consecutive years but was pipped at the post last year by Ronaldo.
During 2014 Ronaldo scored 52 goals in 43 games.
The 29-year-old said: "I would like to thank all of those who voted for me, my president, my coach and Real Madrid. It has been an unforgettable year. To win this trophy at the end of it is something incredibly unique."
In his normal unassuming way he added "I deserve it."
