The Brazilian superstar received the award in the ceremony accompanying the UCL draw in Monaco after his extraordinary performance with Barcelona that saw the Catalan giants crowned European champions.

Spain's Carles Puyol snatched the best defender award, beating off competition from Real Madrid new signing Fabio Cannavaro, who played for Juventus in last season, and Arsenal's Emmanuel Eboue.

Barcelona continued to dominate the awards, with Portuguese player Deco getting the nod over Lyon's Juninho and Villarreal playmaker Juan Riquelme in the best midfielder category.

And Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o was chosen as the tournament's best forward, ahead of Arsenal's Thierry Henry and teammate Ronaldinho.

Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann was the only non-Barcelona player to receive an award as he beat Gianluigi Buffon and Lyon's Gregory Coupet for the best goalkeeper award.