Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed gratitude to fans worldwide after his 2007-08 season, which earned him his first Ballon d’Or in 2008, was voted the greatest in the history of the prestigious award.

Ronaldo, 41, emerged ahead of long-time rival Lionel Messi following a month-long public online poll organised around the Ballon d’Or, with Messi’s 2012 campaign finishing second and Ronaldo’s 2017 season taking third place.

The Al Nassr forward was recognised for his outstanding performances during the 2007-08 campaign at Manchester United, where he scored 42 goals across all competitions, helping the English club secure both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League titles.

His remarkable performances that season earned him his maiden Ballon d’Or award.

Reacting to the result, Ronaldo took to social media to thank supporters for their votes and continued backing.

“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 wrote.

The Portuguese forward has won five Ballon d’Or titles during his illustrious career, including four during his time at Real Madrid in 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017.

Ronaldo, who is approaching the historic milestone of 1,000 career goals, also holds the record as the highest-scoring male international footballer, with 143 goals in 225 appearances for Portugal.