Ronaldinho won the Golden Ball award on Monday night, crowning him European Player of the Year 2005.
Ronaldinho, who won the Spanish league with Barcelona and the Confederations Cup with Brazil, is the third Brazilian to win the award. Rivaldo won it in 1999 and Ronaldo claimed the award in 1997 and 2002.
“This is a dream come true,” said Ronaldinho, who won the FIFA Player of the Year award last year. “When I see all the names on the list, when I see my idols Ronaldo and Rivaldo, I realize this is a great honor.”
Ronaldinho secured 225 points, with Chelsea’s Frank Lampard second with 148 points and England teammate Gerrard third with 142.
The winner is chosen by France Football magazine’s annual poll of 52 journalists from around the world.
