AS Ronaldo was the major reason behind an unforgettable season for Real Madrid in 2016-17, Ronaldo’s struggles for the club in their success was rightfully recognized by the football world in 2017.
The 32-year-old started the phenomenal year by being honored with FIFA’s inaugural The Best accolade in January, which he finally retained in October. At both functions, Ronaldo was also named in the FIFA FIFPro World XI.
His efforts in Real Madrid’s historic Champions League achievement- where he was the top scorer in the tournament with a brace in the final – resulted in him being honored with UEFA Player of the Year.
Ronaldo finally managed to catch Messi winning his fifth Ballon d’Or in early December.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rs4OL8pTOtY
Messi did manage to edge the Portuguese captain in some spheres, however, had to remain in the second position at several individual awards ceremonies in 2017.
The Argentine striker finished the 2016-17 season as La Liga’s top scorer netting 37 goals in 34 appearances.
He was also the pick of the bunch across Europe’s top leagues, gaining the 2016-17 Golden Shoe – his fourth time scooping the gong.
| Cristiano Ronaldo | The Best (x2), UEFA Player of the Year, Ballon d’Or, FIFA FIFPro World XI |
| Lionel Messi | La Liga top scorer, European Golden Shoe, FIFA FIFPro World XI |
