New Delhi, Oct. 29 -- Cristiano Ronaldo has beaten longtime rival Lionel Messi to win the inaugural B.O.A.T. (Ballon d'Or of All Time) award, with his 2008 Ballon d'Or-winning campaign at Manchester United voted the greatest in the history of the prestigious individual honour.

The Portuguese forward finished ahead of Messi's remarkable 2012 season in a public vote organized as part of the celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d'Or.

Ronaldo secured the top position for his performances during the 2007-08 season, when he scored 42 goals across all competitions for Manchester United. His contribution helped the English club win both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League under manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The 200...