Cristiano Ronaldo: ''Ballon d'Or and The Best are losing credibility.''

In a recent interview with the Portuguese newspaper Record, Cristiano Ronaldo has criticised the Ballon d'Or and The Best awards, expressing his belief that both are starting to lose their credibility in light of the recent editions.

Lionel Messi claimed both awards in 2023, while Erling Haaland received the title of Best Men's Player at the 2023 Globe Soccer Awards ceremony in Dubai last Friday.

Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's impressive performance of scoring 54 goals in 59 appearances in 2023, the highest tally among all players worldwide, he wasn’t nominated for either the FIFA or France Football awards.

Speaking to Record, Ronaldo said: "Ballon d’Or and The Best are losing credibility."

“It’s not to say that Messi didn’t deserve it, or Haaland or even Mbappe… but the numbers are there and the numbers don’t deceive. You have to consider the entire season.

“The numbers are facts. If you go back and see what happened at Manchester United and the national team, people actually considered me lost... But the truth is that I focused and had a great period at Al Nassr, that's why I scored 54 goals".

In the same interview, the 38-year-old forward speaks about when he is thinking of hanging up his boots: “As I often tell my friends, life is dynamic. Tomorrow is uncertain. I could end my career at the end of this season, or I could play for another two or three years... I don't know, to be honest.

“As long as my mind and body are in good condition, and I enjoy playing football, I will continue. When I feel that I am no longer useful, I will be the first to take that step.

“Right now, I feel in a good state, and I experience satisfaction and happiness on the field, whether in the national team or at the club. I continue and enjoy.”