Cristiano Ronaldo: Real Madrid star wins Best Player in Europe Award

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the  UEFA Best Player in Europe Award.

Ronaldo beat off competition from Ream Madrid teammate, Gareth Bale and Atletico Madridstriker Antoine Griezmann to win the award at the draw for the Champions League group stage on Thursday, August 25.

playCristiano Ronaldo was announced the winner at the Champions League draw in Monaco (UEFA via Getty Images )

The 31-year-old led Real to their 11th Champions League win before playing a pivotal role in guiding Portugal to their first major international trophy at Euro 2016.

Ronaldo's team mate Bale, who also won a Champions League medal, inspired Wales to reach the semi-finals at June's European Championship.

playGareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and Antoine Griezmann (UEFA via Getty Images )

France striker Griezmann lost the Champions League final with Atletico, and was also on the losing side in the Euro 2016 final, although he was crowned top scorer with six goals and was named player of the European Championship.

The three finalists for the award were chosen by journalists from UEFA'S member nations.

playCristiano Ronaldo arrives the Champions League draw (UEFA via Getty Images )

This is the second time Ronaldo is winning the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award.