Real Madrid president Florentino Perez hailed Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portugal superstar won the 2013 FIFA Ballon d'Or, saying "justice has been done."
An emotional Ronaldo picked up the award for the world's best player at a ceremony in Zurich on Monday night after pipping Barcelona playmaker Lionel Messi, who had won the crown for the last four years, and Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery in the voting.
It was the second time Ronaldo has won the Ballon d'Or, with his other victory coming in 2008, and Madrid chief Perez believes it was thoroughly deserved.
He said on his club's website: "Justice has been done because he's the best player in the world.
"He's an example to everyone.
"We Real Madrid fans are very happy and it's a special day for us all. When the best player is chosen once a year, it's an honour to have him in our team.
"I don't want to exaggerate, but this is not just about the Ballon d'Or but also about the recognition for a leader in football who always want to achieve more."
Ronaldo's team-mates were also keen to congratulate the Portugal captain for his success, which came after he racked up a mammoth 69 goals for both club and country last year.
Madrid goalkeeper and Spain skipper Iker Casillas, who voted for Ronaldo as his first-choice ahead of Bayern Munich duo Ribery and Arjen Robben, wrote on his Twitter feed: "Congratulations friend, you deserve it".
Defender Alvaro Arbeloa tweeted: "Another day of glory for you, Cristiano! I'm proud to fight by your side! Happy Ballon d'Or!"
Sergio Ramos, who was named in the FIFPro World XI team of the year alongside Ronaldo on Monday night, added on his Twitter account: "Hard work, determination, motivation and talent. Congrats to my good friend @Cristiano. You deserve it crack..!!"
Source: PA
