Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema won the men's Ballon d'Or on Monday, becoming the first Frenchman to claim the most prestigious individual prize in football since Zinédine Zidane almost a quarter of a century ago. In the women's Ballon d'Or contest, Alexia Putellas of Spain saw off stiff competition to win the award for the second year running.
Benzema, 34, was the overwhelming favourite after his remarkable performances last season helped his club win the Champions League and La Liga. He scored an astonishing 44 goals in 46 games for his club including 15 in the Champions League.