London, Dec. 8 : Manchester United and Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo has said that by getting his hands on the Ballon d’Or award, he is living the dream.

Ronaldo was named as Kaka’s successor last Tuesday and was presented with the trophy on Sunday.

“I’m very, very happy. It’s a dream I’ve had since I was a youngster — I’ve always dreamed about winning it one day. I’m very moved, very happy and I’d like to take this opportunity to dedicate this trophy to my family, they’ve helped me get here,” The Sun quoted him, as saying.

“I thank my mother, my father, my close friends. The trophy is splendid, marvellous, beautiful. I’ve waited for this,” he added.

Portugal winger Ronaldo polled a massive 446 points from a maximum 480, finishing comfortably ahead of second-placed Lionel Messi (281) and third-placed Fernando Torres (179). (ANI)