While it might not be the most memorable year for Cristiano Ronaldo, 2012 was pretty good. A La Liga title with Real Madrid, a fine performance with Portugal in the Euro, and 63 goals that deserve an infographic, just like Lionel Messi has.
It’s a shame that such a talented player is somewhat in the shadow of another great one. Maybe Messi is actually better, or maybe it’s all about likability, and Ronaldo’s persona off the pitch (and saying dumb things like I’m successful because I’m modest…), having a supermodel for a girlfriend and his often annoying reaction on the field are what determine this popularity contest.
When it comes to individual awards, Ronaldo isn’t even close, finishing second, third or outside the top 3 since Messi has taken over the voting, winning the award four consecutive times. Just to think Ronaldo was the player who won in the previous year. Things changed quickly for the Portuguese star, who scores more than anyone, except for one other player.
Infograhpic source: Visual.ly