This was published 11 years ago
Stars dazzle at Ballon D'or ceremony
Portuguese and Real Madrid great Cristiano Ronaldo has won his third FIFA Player of the Year award, the Ballon d'Or, at a FIFA ceremony in Zurich, Switzerland.
The 29-year-old - who led his club to a 10th Champions League trophy - beat great rival Lionel Messi and Germany's goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
Ronaldo's club teammate James Rodriguez won the goal of the year award and Germany World Cup winner Joachim Loew was declared coach of the year.
A delighted Ronaldo shakes hands with FIFA president Sepp Blatter.
He let out a bellow after being named.
"I never thought I would win this trophy on three occasions," Ronaldo said
"I want to be one of the greatest players of all time and of course this requires a lot of effort."
He posed with his mother, son and brother.
French legend Theirry Henry announced the award.
Rodriguez won the goal of the year award for his World Cup volley.
He pipped little known Irishwoman Stephanie Roche.
