"A childhood dream" - Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema delivers emotional speech after winning 2022 Ballon d'Or

Real Madrid superstar Karim Benzema gave an emotional speech after winning the 2022 Ballon d'Or award.

The Frenchman had a tremendous 2021-22 season with Los Blancos, scoring 44 goals and providing 16 assists in 46 games across competitions. He was the main force behind Carlo Ancelotti's team winning La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

Benzema has been in the Spanish capital since 2009. However, his performances have often gone under the shadow of Portuguese phenom Cristiano Ronaldo.

Since Ronaldo's departure in 2018, the striker has transcended his game to another level. His recognition as the world's best player has been an accumulation of effort over the last few years.

At 34, Benzema is not the youngest. He is certainly not the fastest, nor the most skillful. However, it was his willpower and disciplined nature that helped him get to the stratospheric standard that he is today.

An emotional Benzema said after his Ballon d'Or win:

"There is no age to win the #BallondOr. Sometimes player get better in their 30's and this is all down to taking care of yourself. This is a childhood dream.I never gave up. I always kept the joy of playing football. I'm really proud of my journey. This is the people's Ballon d'Or."

Further reflecting on his journey to the top, he said:

"I’m really proud of my journey here, it wasn’t easy, it was difficult, for me and my family. To be here today, the first time for me. I am just really, really happy, thanks to my teammates, with Real Madrid and the national team.” (h/t GiveMeSport)

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema talked about his age

Benzema is one of the oldest players to ever win the Ballon d'Or award. While reflecting on his age and future in the game, the No. 9 added:

"Age is just a number for me, People play until their later years now and I still have this burning desire. It is this drive that has kept me going and never allowed me to let up. It kept this dream alive and was the fire behind me. I just want to make the most if it."

The France international found the back of the net in Real's 3-1 win over arch-rivals Barcelona in La Liga on Sunday, October 16.