When the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner was announced, football fans worldwide held their breath. The award went to Luka Modric, breaking Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s decade-long dominance. On Winbdt, we analyze Ronaldo’s reaction, the numbers behind his claim, and what this means for his future at Juventus.
The 2018 Ballon d’Or Controversy: Ronaldo’s Candid Response
Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t hide his disappointment after finishing second to his former Real Madrid teammate. “Of course I’m disappointed, but life goes on,” the Portuguese icon told Italian media. His statement—”numbers do not lie”—reflects his belief that his performances merited a sixth Ballon d’Or.
Why Modric Won: A Tactical Breakdown
Luka Modric’s 2018 was historic. He led Croatia to their first-ever World Cup final and was instrumental in Real Madrid’s third consecutive Champions League triumph. While Ronaldo had a strong year, Modric’s leadership and consistency in high-pressure matches swayed voters.
Modric’s Ballon d’Or win marked a shift in football’s individual accolades, rewarding midfield mastery.
Ronaldo’s Unmatched Numbers: A Case for the Award
Ronaldo’s argument isn’t without merit. In 2018, he:
- Scored 44 goals in all competitions.
- Won the Champions League with Real Madrid, netting 15 times in the tournament.
- Made a seamless transition to Juventus, quickly becoming their talisman.
His career total now stands at 584 goals, a testament to his longevity and elite finishing.
Expert Opinion: Was Ronaldo Robbed?
We spoke to Michael Carton, a football analyst at Winbdt, who noted:
“Ronaldo’s club performances were phenomenal, but Modric’s World Cup heroics tipped the scales. The Ballon d’Or has always valued international success—just look at Cannavaro in 2006.”
What’s Next for CR7?
Ronaldo’s hunger remains undiminished. “Next year, we will meet again,” he declared, signaling his intent to reclaim the award. With Juventus dominating Serie A and competing in Europe, another Ballon d’Or isn’t out of reach.
Key Takeaways for Football Fans
- Modric’s win was historic, ending the Messi-Ronaldo duopoly.
- Ronaldo’s numbers still make him a top contender yearly.
- The 2019 race could see a three-way battle if Messi returns to form.
Winbdt will keep you updated as Ronaldo continues his quest for greatness. Will 2019 be his year? Only time will tell.
What do you think—did Ronaldo deserve the 2018 Ballon d’Or? Share your thoughts below!
