Cristiano Ronaldo wins the 2016 Ballon D'or award for the 4th time (photos)

Real Madrid and Portugal super star Cristiano Ronaldo had been crowned the world's best player for 2016 after he defeated rival Lionel Messi to clinch the Ballon D'or award for the fourth time in his very illustrious career.

The award crowns such a hardworking year for the Madeira native who helped Real Madrid win the UEFA champions league title and also helped his country, Portugal, to win a historic EURO 2016 cup, despite the huge odds against them.

The striker topped the poll of 173 journalists worldwide to take home France Football magazine's coveted award on Monday night held in Paris, France.

The player was not present in Paris to collect the award due to the Club World Cup which Reeal Madrid is currently participating in, in Japan.

Messi came second in the award while Antonie Griezmann of France/Atletico Madrid came third.

FIFA will hold its own award 'the Best' awards in January and Ronaldo is favorite to win that award also.

Congrats to Ronaldo! One of the greatest athletes of our time!