Ronaldo: I want to win again because it's so good!

Updated: 09 May, 2009 • 0 • min read

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Cristiano Ronaldo was told on Monday evening at his home in the countryside near Manchester, that he was the 53rd Ballon d’Or winner.

Proud of the legacy of Eusébio and Luís Figo but 'without fear' about the final outcome, Ronaldo has expressed his feeling about the accolade in an exclusive interview with Xavier Rivoire of France Football magazine.

"Cristiano Ronaldo, you are the 2008 Ballon d’Or winner, totaling 446 points out of 480 possible. You are successor to Kaká. What is your first impression?"

"It is one of the most beautiful day of my life. Winning this trophy... I dreamed about it.
"So much emotion that fills me but ... (laughs) I can not really describe it because, you open the door, I expected to find myself with the Ballon d’Or in the hands (the trophy will be awarded this Sunday).
"On Sunday, surrounded by my family, it will be a perhaps different feeling that will enliven me but this evening, I mean first thanks to those who voted for me.
"Those who know me, who live with me, know that for me it is a dream come true."

"You are the third Portuguese footballer to win the trophy after Eusébio (1965) and Figo (2000). What these descendants had inspire you?"

"I come into effect after the two great players that you appoint. I am only 23 years old, and it is splendid. It's incredible!
"I started my career only some years ago (in 17 years, under the shirt of Sporting Lisbon).
"This is even more fantastic as other big names were in contention this year. I see that Lionel Messi finish second (281 points) and Fernando Torres third (179 points), but also Xavi (who finish fifth)."

"Have you doubted for a moment about the outcome of this vote?"

"I am not afraid because I was aware of what I made during this season, but anything can happen. Some people mentioned my name and to these people, I say thank you.
"Thank you, also, to my team mates who allowed me to be the best, it is them who have passed me the ball so I could mark these goals (42 goals for Manchester United in all competitions)."

"On Tuesday morning, what are you going to do when arriving at the Carrington training center?"

"The same thing as usual: work to be good for Saturday, since I cannot play Wednesday in the League Cup (he is suspended after being sent off during the Manchester derby on Sunday).
"This morning, coming to training, I will be the same guy. What is certain is that I want to win again because it's so good!
"On Tuesday, therefore, at eight o'clock, I shall wake up and I shall say: I want to be better still."

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