ZURICH: Real Madrid Midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo wins 2014 FIFA Ballon D'or for the third time, beating Lionel Messi and Manuel Neuer on Tuesday.
Former Arsenal legend Thierry Henry announced the men's winner. An emotional Ronaldo thanked his coach, team-mates, the president of his club, Real Madrid.
"This has been an unforgettable year. I would like to carry on doing my best for my father, who is up there, my son, my mother." he said.
Later, Cristiano junior joined with his dad on stage, making him emotionally exhaling.
He beat Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and four-time winner Lionel Messi in a vote of national team captains and coaches from FIFA's 209 member countries, plus selected journalists.
Ronaldo retained football's highest individual honor after scoring 61 goals for Real Madrid and Portugal last year.
His record tally of 17 in a Champions League season helped his club win an unprecedented 10th European Cup title.
Ronaldo was more composed for this widely expected victory than during his tearful acceptance speech one year ago when ending Messi's four-year reign.
In the women's award, Germany midfielder Nadine Kessler beat Marta of Brazil and United States forward Abby Wambach.
(With inputs from agencies)