New Delhi, Oct. 29 -- Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo has been crowned the inaugural winner of the BOAT (Ballon d'Or of All Time) award following massive voting from fans worldwide, with his 2008 campaign with Manchester United being recognised as the best-ever individual year in the history of football's most prestigious individual prize.

France Football introduced a unique award, adding more fire to the debates of footballing greatness. After Harry Kane, the England and Bayern Munich superstar, secured the Ballon d'Or, the BOAT award was awarded to Cristiano. The award was introduced to settle which Ballon d'Or season stands above the rest.

Cristiano edged past Lionel Messi, his long-time rival, to secure the award. The voters seeme...