Ronaldo wins Globe Soccer award again

DUBAI

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has been named Globe Soccer’s Best Player for the second year in a row and the fourth time overall although he wasn’t present in person to receive his trophy on Dec. 28.

The Portuguese international also won the prize, organized by the European Association of Football Agents (EFAA) and European Clubs Association (ECA) in 2011, 2014 and 2016.

Ronaldo appeared by video link as he received the award from Italy’s Alessandro del Piero.

Despite his numerous awards, Ronaldo joked that he still has plenty of room to expand his personal trophy cabinet.

“Don’t worry my friend, I have a lot of space,” Ronaldo, who inspired Real to the Champions League last season, told the show’s host. “For me it’s a special moment and I feel very happy to receive this award. I have to say thank you to my teammates, to my coach, to Real Madrid.

“It was an amazing year, we won a lot of trophies collective and myself individual, so I’m so glad. Thank you for the people who voted for me - next year, do the same!”

Real was also named best club of the year and Zinedine Zidane was best coach. “It’s an honor for me and for the club to receive this award,” Zidane told the audience.