The French football legend was adamant that he deserved to win the Ballon d'Or ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013 It has been over a decade, but Franck Ribery is still not over missing out on the 2013 Ballon d’Or despite winning the UEFA Champions League as part of a famous treble. PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports The former Bayern Munich star believes he was robbed of the prestigious award, which ultimately went to Cristiano Ronaldo despite Ribery’s dominant year. Ribery males case for 2013 Ballon d’Or The 2013 season was one of the finest in Ribery’s career, both individually and collectively. He played a key role in Bayern Munich’s historic treble-winning campaign, securing the UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga, German Cup, and Club World Cup. His dazzling performances even earned him the UEFA Best Player in Europe award, yet that wasn’t enough to clinch the Ballon d’Or. Instead, the honour went to Cristiano Ronaldo, who had an exceptional year but failed to win any major trophies with Real Madrid. Speaking to L’Equipe, Ribery made it clear that he still struggles to understand the decision, saying, “It was the perfect year. I couldn’t have done any better. This Ballon d’Or will forever be an injustice. I am still looking for explanations.” Ribery shares thoughts on Ronaldo and Messi While Ribery ultimately finished third behind Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the voting, he insists he was playing at their level at the time. The Bavarian legend said, “Messi and Ronaldo have always shown me respect. They knew that I was at their table. Being completely humble, in 2013, I had nothing to envy about them.” The French winger’s frustration has lingered long past his retirement in 2022, as he continues to feel that he was overlooked for football’s greatest individual prize. Ribery’s case is often cited as one of the most controversial snubs in the award’s history alongside Wesley Sneijder losing to Messi in 2010, and recently Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior losing to Manchester City’s Rodri.