Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was awarded by the Spanish daily Marca for his successful career as a professional footballer late Monday. The 34-year-old player won the 'Marca Legend' for the first time in his career, adding another award to his trophy collection.
"This trophy is going to be in a very nice place in my museum which is in Madeira Island. Madrid is special. I travel a lot but there are few cities like Madrid. Much of this award is derived from what I did at Madrid," Ronaldo said.
"It is a Spanish trophy and I am very honored to have it. Thank you to everyone who helped me to achieve it. It is a matter of pride to me and I hope to return to Madrid soon," he added.
Marca has been giving these awards to successful sports figures since 1997.
Ronaldo also reunited with Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez during the award ceremony, as fans shouted ''sign him up" calling for his return to the club.
Prominent athletes who won this prize in the past include Rafa Nadal (tennis player), Michael Jordan (basketball player), Michael Phelps (swimmer), Marc Marquez (motorcycle racer), Pau Gasol (basketball player), Miguel Indurain (cyclist), Usain Bolt (athlete) and Roger Federer (tennis player).
Football legends such as Lionel Messi, Raul Gonzalez, Diego Maradona, Pele and Paolo Maldini have also claimed this trophy.