By Abba Gwale
Cristiano Ronaldo has been crowned the “Player of the Century” at the Global Soccer Awards on Sunday.
Ronaldo beat his long time rival Lionel Messi to grab the sought-after award in a ceremony that was held at the Armani Hotel in the United Arab of Emirates.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid 35-year-old forward has spent nearly 20 years as a professional footballer.
According to the organsiers of the event, Player of the Century is given to the player judged the best between 2001 and 2020.
“It’s a pleasure to win titles,” said Ronaldo who is also a five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“It’s not easy to be top of the game for so many years. I am really proud, but without a team, great coaches and clubs it is not possible.”
The Portuguese player also tweeted that, “Couldn’t be happier with tonight’s award! As I’m about to celebrate my 20th year as a professional footballer, Globe Soccer Player Of The Century is a recognition that I receive with so much joy and pride!”
