FC Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi and 2016 Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo have been described as "two monsters" of the game by one of their fellow competitors.
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Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann was delighted to be on the same podium as the Argentine and the Portugal captain after making the final three for this year's Ballon d'Or title.
The French forward has had one of the best years of his career, having reached the UEFA Champions League final with the Rojiblancos and the European Championship decider with France, and was happy with his third place for the 2016 Ballon d'Or crown, considering he was up against "two monsters" in Ronaldo and Messi.
"It is a great pride, an immense joy and a bit unexpected too," Griezmann told L'Equipe TV.
"I am happy to be in the top three and I thank those who voted for me. I'm on the right track, we have to keep working.
"Messi and Ronaldo are two monsters, two legends. To be behind them is a pride and a joy. It is necessary to continue to score, to work, to take pleasure and to give to the supporters."
The Atletico star also revealed that he hopes to win the award at some stage in his life, but knows it will be tough with Ronaldo and Messi around.
"It will be hard to get past (Lionel) Messi or (Cristiano) Ronaldo in the future," Griezmann added.
"We will try to go higher. I hope it continues like this and that the year 2017 will be as good as this one."
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The 25-year-old striker has made 20 appearances in all competitions for his Spanish club this season, scoring nine goals and assisting six further strikes.
Do you think Griezmann will one day lift the Ballon d'Or? Have your say in the comments section below.
