Controversy surrounds Ronaldo's unofficial 'Best of All Time' award
Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the winner of the fan-voted B.O.A.T. award, sparking debate over the paid voting process.
The football world is buzzing after Cristiano Ronaldo was named the winner of the 'Ballon d'Or of All Time' (B.O.A.T.) award. Organized by the Ballon d'Or authorities to celebrate the trophy's 70th anniversary, the initiative allowed fans to vote for the greatest winning season among players who have claimed the prestigious individual honor at least twice.
Ronaldo, who secured the award for his 2008 triumph with Manchester United, finished ahead of Lionel Messi. The voting process was open to ten legendary candidates, including Johan Cruyff, Zinedine Zidane, and Franz Beckenbauer. However, the event has faced scrutiny because fans were required to pay one euro for every vote cast.
A fan-driven initiative
Official organizers have moved to clarify the nature of the distinction, stressing that it is not an official award or a physical trophy. The initiative was designed as an engagement tool, with voters even offered a chance to win tickets to the 2027 gala. Despite the high interest, the results remain a reflection of a paid public poll rather than an expert consensus.
The organizers emphasized that the B.O.A.T. is completely separate from the traditional Ballon d'Or or any 'Super Ballon d'Or' concepts. While it adds a new chapter to the rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi, it remains a fan-led digital recognition.
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