After winning the best international athlete award in men’s football for 2021, Cristiano Ronaldo took a moment to thank all the fans.
Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted what made his latest award ‘even more special’ was that it came from the fans who voted for him.
In the 2021 ESPYS awards show on Sunday in New York, Ronaldo was recognized as ESPN’s best international athlete in men’s football. It’s the fourth time he has won the accolade since its founding in 2006.
“Hi guys, thank you very much for this amazing award,” Ronaldo said in a recorded video message. “It’s even more special when it’s voted by the fans, so thank you a lot.
“I wish to be there with you guys, but unfortunately I can’t. Thank you very much guys.”
The Best International Athlete prize is awarded to the best sportsperson of a calendar year in the eyes of fans.
Argentina star Lionel Messi, Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe, and Liverpool ace Mohamed Salah were the other three nominees.
American midfielder Sam Mewis, meanwhile, won the women’s edition of the Best International Athlete.
Marcus Rashford was the third and final footballer to win a prize in the ceremony. The Manchester United and England forward claimed the Pat Tillman Award for Service for his charity work outside football.
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