Ronaldo, 23, said: “This is a unique moment for me. I’d
like to dedicate this to my father, my mother, my brothers and
sisters. “To my mother and my sisters I’d like to say you can now
light up the fireworks. I’d also like to thank my
team-mates.”
Ronaldo became the first Premier League ace to win the
award since its launch 18 years ago. He also won the European
Footballer of the Year award after a remarkable season in which he
scored 42 goals in 49 games. He led United to a Premier and
Champions League double.
Liverpool’s Fernando Torres came third behind Barcelona
ace Leo Messi. Ronaldo added: “The past year was something great
but winning this award adds a very special something to
that.”
He had earlier hailed United boss Alex Ferguson as the
man behind his success. Ronaldo said: “Sir Alex has had an
important role to play in my life.
“Last season was a great one for me, my club and the
boss was important for me because I learned a lot from
him.
“His immense experience is of paramount importance and
it’s a privilege to be able to be a part of the history of such a
big club as United.
“I think that I can become part of the history of this
club but you can’t get anywhere without a great manager.”
