Ronaldo Beats Messi as 2008 Ballon d’Or Season Wins Top Award

By Timeline NewsOctober 29, 2026October 29, 2026

Manchester United Legend Tops Fan Poll as Messi Finishes Second

Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary 2008 season has been voted the greatest Ballon d’Or-winning campaign of all time, putting the Portuguese superstar ahead of his longtime rival Lionel Messi in a special fan poll.

The award, called the B.O.A.T. award, was introduced by France Football to mark the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d’Or. Ronaldo secured first place in the public voting, while Messi’s remarkable 2012 season finished second.

Ronaldo’s Historic 2008 Season Takes Top Spot

Ronaldo’s outstanding performances for Manchester United during the 2007-08 season played a decisive role in his selection. He scored 42 goals across all competitions and helped the English club win both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.

His exceptional form earned him the 2008 Ballon d’Or, establishing him as the world’s leading footballer at the time.

Messi’s Record-Breaking 2012 Campaign Ranks Second

Messi finished in second place for his extraordinary 2012 campaign, when he scored a record 91 goals in a calendar year.

Ronaldo’s 2017 Ballon d’Or-winning season with Real Madrid secured third place in the voting, highlighting three of the most memorable individual campaigns in modern football history.

Voting Method Raises Questions

Despite Ronaldo’s victory, the voting process has sparked debate among football fans. Participants were charged €1 per vote and were permitted to vote multiple times, raising concerns that those willing to spend more money could have a greater influence on the final result.

According to the organisers, more than 5,000 people voted multiple times.