4 January 1998: Ronaldo celebrates his Ballon d'Or win at San Siro
Legends
— Jan 4th 2023Twenty-five years ago, il Fenomeno unveiled the prestigious French award to the fans
4 January 1998: A cold Sunday at the beginning of the year in Milan. Everything is ready for the league's resumption after the Christmas break: Inter's 1998 begins with one of the most highly anticipated matches, Inter vs Juventus, the first Italian derby of the season. San Siro is sold out, the public is buzzing for one of the most eagerly awaited matches of the season.
Twenty-five years ago Inter faced Juventus, but the match will be remembered more for the celebration of Ronaldo: that day il Fenomeno raised the Ballon d'Or to the sky of San Siro, the first of his career. A trophy shared with club and fans alike, shown off by Ronaldo before kick-off.
Il Fenomeno, the first Brazilian ever to win the trophy awarded by the France football association: the world's best player.
The evening ended on a high note with Inter defeating Juventus 1-0 thanks to a goal by Djorkaeff, assisted by Ronaldo: a goal once again inspired by his magic.