Ronaldo fed up with Messi comparison

Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he is growing tired of comparison with Lionel Messi and believes the race for the Ballon d'Or is wide open.

Both the Real Madrid and Barcelona forwards have continued to wow the football world and are widely considered to be in a head-to-head battle for the prestigious award.

The are both on a 23-man shortlists compiled by FIFA's football committe and expects from France Football magazine.

Other players who could also win the award are: Didier Drogba, Falcao, Xavi and Iniesta.

The award, which is voted for by international managers and captains, as well as selected journalists, will be cut to a shortlist of three before a winner is named on January 7.