Ronaldo backs CR7 for Ballon d'Or over Messi

The former Selecao star feels that the Real Madrid attacker's remarkable goalscoring record will see him once again beat his Barcelona rival to the prestigious prize

Brazil icon Ronaldo believes that Cristiano Ronaldo will retain his Ballon d'Or award, arguing that the Portuguese has had a more "memorable" year than Lionel Messi.
The Portugal international is the reigning titleholder and heavily fancied to hold onto his crown after leading Real Madrid to Champions League glory in May, not to mention the his remarkable goalscoring form this season, with the 29-year-old having netted 23 times in just 17 games in all competitions.
Messi failed to win a major title with Barcelona last term, while he fell just short in his bid to inspire Argentina to World Cup glory, with the Albiceleste losing to Germany in the final.
Consequently, former Selecao star Ronaldo, who represented both Barca and Madrid during his illustrious playing career, feels that his namesake is destined for more Ballon d'Or success.
“I think we’ll see a repeat and Ronaldo will win it again this year," the retired 38-year-old told Sportmasta Italia.
"He’s scoring lots of goals and is a big part of the way Real Madrid are playing.
"Messi is also in good form but Cristiano’s year has been memorable.
"Messi’s year hasn't been that memorable for him."
World Cup winner Ronaldo, who was last week inducted into Goal's Hall of Fame, claimed two Ballon d'Or awards and three Fifa World Player of the Year titles during his playing days.