Cristiano Ronaldo named UEFA’s best player after continental wins with Real Madrid and Portugal

CRISTIANO Ronaldo has won UEFA’s award as the best player in Europe after helping Portugal win Euro 2016 and inspiring Real Madrid to Champions League glory.

Cristiano Ronaldo was named the best player in Europe during this week’s UEFA Champions League draw ceremony.

CRISTIANO RONALDO has won UEFA’s award as the best player in Europe last season after helping Portugal to win the European Championship and having another stellar campaign for Real Madrid.

Ronaldo, a favourite for a fourth world player of the year award, beat club teammate Gareth Bale of Wales and Atletico Madrid’s France star Antoine Griezmann.

The vote, by journalists from UEFA’s 55 member countries, was announced at the Champions League draw Thursday.

Ronaldo also received the award in 2014. Lionel Messi (twice), Andres Iniesta and Franck Ribery previously won the award, which was first presented in 2011.

UEFA created the prize after the original European Footballer of the Year honour, known as the Ballon d’Or, merged with FIFA’s world player award.

Lyon forward Ada Hegerberg won the women’s award.

Real Madrid's Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo kisses his trophy.

Gareth Bale, Antoine Griezmann and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Originally published as Cristiano Ronaldo named UEFA’s best player after continental wins with Real Madrid and Portugal