Ballon d’Or 2021: Absent, Cristiano Ronaldo is furious and speaks of “lies”

It is a notable absentee who wanted to justify himself this Monday evening, shortly before the start of the 2021 Ballon d’Or ceremony. In a message posted on Instagram, Cristiano Ronaldo, five-time winner of the trophy, wanted to explain why he wouldn’t go to Paris. At issue, in particular, a statement by Pascal Ferré, editor-in-chief of France Football, who explained that CR7 had confirmed to him that he wanted to win more Ballons d’Or than Lionel Messi.

“Today’s outcome explains Pascal Ferré’s statements last week, when he declared that I had confided to him that my only ambition was to end my career with more Ballons d’Or than Lionel. Messi, first writes the Manchester United striker in remarks translated by Footmercato. Pascal Ferré lied, he used my name to promote himself and to promote the publication for which he works. It is unacceptable that the person responsible for the presentation of such a prestigious award could lie like this, in an absolute disrespect for someone who has always respected France Football and the Ballon d’Or. And he lied again today by justifying my absence from the gala by an alleged quarantine which has no reason to exist. I always want to congratulate those who win, respecting the sportsmanship and fair play that have guided my career from the start because I am never against anyone.”

Reassembled, Cristiano Ronaldo clarified that he does “won against no one“. “I always win for myself and for the clubs I represent, he assures (…) The biggest ambition of my career is to win national and international titles for the clubs I represent and for the national team of my country. The biggest ambition of my career is to be a good example for all those who are or want to be professional footballers. The greatest ambition of my career is to leave my name inscribed in letters of gold in the history of world football. I will close by saying that my focus is already on the next Manchester United game and how much, with my teammates and fans, we can still achieve great things this season..”