Cristiano Ronaldo bags best men's player title at Dubai Globe Soccer Awards

At the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards, Cristiano Ronaldo was named the year's best men's player. Ronaldo, who finished third behind Virgil van Dijk and winner Lionel Messi in the 2019 Ballon d'Or rankings, has now earned the title for the sixth time of its nine years of existence.

At a glittering award ceremony at the Madinat Jumeirah, the 34-year-old forward scooped the top prize. It also marked a fourth consecutive victory at the awards for the 34-year-old, who in his first season in Italy helped Juventus secure the 2018-19 Series A title. Cristiano also played a key role for Portugal, scoring a hat-trick in the UEFA Nations League semi-final as his team went on to win the trophy.

Ronaldo was quoted as saying by the National, “I have to thank my family, my girlfriend, my boy there, Cristiano, my three kids who are waiting for me in the hotel, my friends, my teammates of Juventus and the national team, my agent, all the people here tonight who support this gala.”

He thanked the Arab community. "I have to thank Dubai as well – it’s a marvellous place to be, I’m coming every year and I love this place.”

The soccer star added, "And finally to thank [everyone] who voted for me. It’s a great honour to be here and receive this amazing award. I hope to be here next year to receive this award, of course. Thanks to everyone, and a happy New Year."

The ‘best agent’ award was won by Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes. While England International Lucy Bronze was crowned the year's best female player.

Ronaldo tweeted after the ceremony, "Honored to receive one more time Globe Soccer Award! A very emotional moment for me to share this award with my family ❤🙏Grateful for all the hospitality, see you soon Dubai!😉"