Cristiano Ronaldo says the Ballon d’Or is “fictional” and no longer important to him, despite winning it five times. The comments came after his hat-trick for Al-Nassr in a pre-season match

Cristiano Ronaldo has dismissed the significance of the Ballon d’Or, calling it “fictional” after netting a hat-trick in Al-Nassr’s pre-season win over Rio Ave.

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The 40-year-old Portuguese forward, when asked who should win the 2025 Ballon d’Or, replied:
“Ballon d’Or? That’s fictional to me.”

This is not the first time Ronaldo has questioned the award’s relevance. In June, he said the honour should go to the player who wins the UEFA Champions League and added that individual accolades no longer carry much weight for him.

Over the years, the five-time winner has openly criticised the voting process, claiming the award has lost its credibility. Ronaldo last lifted the trophy in 2017, with Lionel Messi and other contenders dominating the years since.

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Despite his diminished interest in individual prizes, Ronaldo continues to impress on the pitch. His latest treble for Al-Nassr suggests the veteran striker remains a formidable force as he approaches the twilight of his career.