Heartbreak, again: The wait goes on for tearful Buffon

The Champions League trophy - arguably the most spectacular piece of silverware in professional sports, and certainly in professional football - has once again eluded Gianluigi Buffon.

The iconic Juventus shot-stopper was helpless as his side was battered Saturday, losing 4-1 in the final against serial European Cup winner Real Madrid.

Buffon, 39, has won just about everything there is to win in his storied career, but this latest loss means his wait for Ol' Big Ears goes on; the defeat signals the third time Buffon has come within inches of the title, only to see it slip away.

At this point, it feels like he may never complete his trophy cabinet.

The tears were flowing on the pitch in Cardiff, and the same was likely true for many neutrals who wanted to see the Italian finally get his hands on the one trophy that has always escaped his grasp.

(Photos courtesy: Action Images)