Ronaldo beat Barcelona star Lionel Messi to the prize for the second straight year, having helped Madrid win LaLiga and the Champions League in 2017.
Zidane, who was named the Best FIFA Men's Coach, hailed the 32-year-old for his achievements.
"What can I say about him? He is the best and he's amazing at what he does," the Frenchman said.
"He is always looking to win titles, working very hard as he said. So we're very happy for him."