Lionel Messi secured his eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023, further extending his remarkable record. Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious individual accolades in football, the Ballon d’Or celebrates players who consistently deliver exceptional performances throughout the season. Messi’s latest win showcases his enduring talent and profound influence on the global football stage. Established in 1956, the Ballon d’Or is awarded annually to the footballer judged to have excelled for both club and country. By adding another trophy to his collection, Messi continues to solidify his legacy among the sport’s all-time legends and remains a central figure in discussions about footballing greatness.
How the Ballon d'Or Winner Is Chosen: Criteria and Voting Process
The Ballon d’Or is awarded through a straightforward voting system that emphasizes three key elements: individual excellence, team achievements, and sportsmanship. An international panel of football journalists, each representing one of FIFA’s top 100 men’s national teams, is responsible for casting the votes.
Starting in 2022, the award criteria shifted to evaluate performances over a single football season rather than the traditional calendar year. Journalists assess players based on their personal accomplishments—such as goals scored, assists provided, defensive contributions, and overall influence during games. Success with their clubs or national teams also plays a significant role; winning major league titles or continental competitions can significantly enhance a player’s prospects.
Sportsmanship is another essential consideration. Voters pay attention to how players conduct themselves both on and off the pitch, valuing integrity and respect alongside athletic ability.
- individual accomplishments, such as goals, assists, defensive contributions, and overall influence during games,
- success with clubs or national teams, including major league titles and continental competitions,
- sportsmanship and conduct on and off the pitch,
- leadership and character displayed throughout the season,
- overall impact on team performance and football community.
Each journalist submits a ranked list of five players for the men’s Ballon d’Or. Points are allocated according to these rankings, and the player who accumulates the highest total emerges as the winner.
This approach ensures fairness and transparency, celebrating not only remarkable statistics but also leadership and character—recognizing outstanding achievement in every sense.
Individual Performances and Team Achievements Influencing the Ballon d'Or
Individual brilliance is a major factor in the Ballon d’Or selection, with voters paying close attention to statistics like goals, assists, and defensive contributions. They also examine key performance metrics to assess each candidate’s impact throughout the season.
- statistics such as goals, assists, and defensive contributions,
- metrics like shot accuracy, key passes, and successful tackles,
- game-changing moments and standout performances in critical matches.
For example, during the 2022–23 season, Lionel Messi notched 21 goals and provided 20 assists across all competitions, showcasing both his scoring ability and playmaking skills.
Team accomplishments carry significant weight too. Players who drive their clubs or national teams to major triumphs—whether it’s league championships or continental titles like the Champions League—often have an advantage in the voting process. Erling Haaland exemplifies this; his remarkable scoring record played a crucial role in Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign.
Beyond numbers and trophies, voters consider a player’s influence on their squad’s overall performance. Leadership qualities on the pitch and standout performances in high-pressure matches draw particular interest from the journalists casting ballots. Those who consistently deliver when it matters most tend to stand out from their peers.
Combining outstanding individual displays with meaningful team achievements greatly increases a player’s chances of claiming the Ballon d’Or. This ensures that both personal skill and collective success are recognized when choosing football’s top honor each year.
Role of UEFA Champions League and Major Tournaments in Ballon d'Or Selection
The UEFA Champions League and other major tournaments play a pivotal role in shaping the Ballon d’Or race, as performances in these high-profile events attract global attention and offer players a stage to showcase their abilities against the best clubs and national teams.
Among club competitions, the Champions League stands out due to its immense audience, with over 300 million viewers watching each season. Exceptional performances in Champions League matches often linger in the memory of fans and Ballon d’Or voters.
- triumphs at international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, or Copa América can significantly boost a player’s Ballon d’Or chances,
- journalists responsible for selecting Ballon d’Or winners often place great importance on achievements from these competitions,
- the high intensity and pressure in such tournaments test both talent and composure,
- players delivering clutch performances—such as decisive goals or match-winning contributions in knockout rounds—are celebrated,
- strong showings in these events can elevate a player’s reputation and influence voting outcomes.
For example, Lionel Messi’s 2022–23 season, highlighted by his crucial goals for Paris Saint-Germain and Argentina’s World Cup victory, was instrumental in securing his record eighth Ballon d’Or.
Similarly, Erling Haaland’s prolific scoring for Manchester City in their first Champions League triumph in 2023 positioned him as a leading Ballon d’Or contender.
Performing consistently against elite opponents on football’s biggest stages reveals both talent and mental resilience, qualities essential for winning the sport’s most prestigious individual honor. Unforgettable moments in these tournaments often sway voters when deciding who deserves the coveted Ballon d’Or.
Key Contenders and Nominations for the Latest Ballon d'Or
The latest Ballon d’Or nominations featured an exceptional lineup of contenders, with Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappé leading the charge. Messi’s position was secured by his standout performances for both Paris Saint-Germain and Argentina, highlighted by a remarkable World Cup victory. Haaland was recognized for scoring 52 goals across all competitions and playing a pivotal role in Manchester City’s historic treble—claiming the Premier League, FA Cup, and their first-ever UEFA Champions League title, a feat unmatched in English football since 1999. Mbappé made his mark as the top scorer at the FIFA World Cup and dominated Ligue 1 with his performances for PSG.
For the first time in years, Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from the main nominees after his transfer to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, marking a notable change following years as a consistent frontrunner.
The shortlist celebrated a combination of individual brilliance and major team achievements. Key areas considered by France Football included:
- goal-scoring feats,
- creative assists,
- leadership qualities,
- lifting significant trophies,
- influence throughout the season.
France Football assembled this list based on votes from journalists in over 100 countries, placing particular emphasis on each player’s seasonal impact rather than just calendar-year statistics.
Other prominent names included Kevin De Bruyne, recognized for orchestrating Manchester City’s midfield during their treble-winning campaign, and Rodri, whose decisive contributions proved crucial in key matches. Ultimately, Messi claimed top honors, Haaland secured second place, and Mbappé finished third—a testament to the extraordinary talent showcased among this year’s Ballon d’Or contenders.
2023 Ballon d'Or Winner: Lionel Messi's Historic Achievement
Lionel Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or triumph in 2023 stands as a landmark achievement in football. He set himself apart as the first player ever to claim this prestigious honor eight times, outpacing every other competitor in the award’s history. This milestone underscores Messi’s remarkable consistency and dominance for nearly two decades, both at club level and on the international stage.
Throughout the 2022–23 season, his impact was unmistakable. Playing for Paris Saint-Germain, Messi found the net 21 times and provided 20 assists across all competitions. Beyond his club contributions, he played a pivotal role for Argentina, especially during their victorious FIFA World Cup campaign, where his leadership shone through in crucial moments. These performances were instrumental in swaying journalists’ votes and helped him rise above strong challengers like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé.
- first player to win eight Ballon d’Or awards,
- 21 goals and 20 assists for Paris Saint-Germain during the 2022–23 season,
- key leadership role in Argentina’s FIFA World Cup victory,
- surpassed top competitors such as Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé,
- set a new benchmark for individual excellence in football.
Messi’s unprecedented collection of Ballon d’Or trophies has further cemented his legendary reputation. He continues to be regarded as one of football’s all-time greats. This recognition goes beyond technical brilliance; it is also a tribute to his enduring influence, vision on the field, and ability to shine when it matters most. His historic accomplishment now serves as a benchmark for individual excellence throughout the sport.
Men's and Women's Ballon d'Or: Recent Winners and Notable Nominees
In 2023, Lionel Messi made history by securing his eighth men’s Ballon d’Or, further solidifying his legacy as the award’s most celebrated recipient. On the women’s side, Aitana Bonmatí earned her first Ballon d’Or after a remarkable season with both FC Barcelona and Spain’s national team.
Both Messi and Bonmatí dazzled at club and international competitions. Messi captained Argentina to World Cup glory, while Bonmatí was instrumental in Barcelona’s triumph in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Their outstanding performances distinguished them from other players.
- erling Haaland finished as runner-up after an extraordinary campaign,
- haaland netted 52 goals during Manchester City’s treble-winning run,
- kylian Mbappé received recognition for being the top scorer at the FIFA World Cup,
- kevin De Bruyne was praised for his pivotal contributions to Manchester City’s success,
- rodri also earned praise for his role in Manchester City’s successful season.
- the women’s shortlist featured Alexia Putellas, already a two-time winner,
- chelsea star Sam Kerr was also nominated,
- aitana Bonmatí set herself apart with her consistent command in midfield,
- bonmatí’s leadership during crucial matches made a significant impact,
- her performance was instrumental in securing her first Ballon d’Or.
These accolades signal a growing appreciation for football talent across genders on a global scale. Increased focus on the women’s Ballon d’Or underscores rising admiration for players like Bonmatí, while the men’s award continues to celebrate exceptional individual skill and significant team accomplishments each season.
Aitana Bonmatí, Alexia Putellas, and the Rise of the Women's Ballon d'Or
Aitana Bonmatí’s recent Ballon d’Or victory marks a significant milestone for women’s football and its expanding global influence. Her standout performances with both FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team have propelled her into the limelight, where she now stands alongside Alexia Putellas as a symbol of growing recognition for female athletes on the field. Since its introduction in 2018, the women’s Ballon d’Or has provided international acknowledgment for top talent in the sport.
Throughout the 2022–23 season, Bonmatí played a pivotal role in guiding Barcelona to Champions League glory and was instrumental in Spain’s successes as well. Her technical ability shone through as she orchestrated play from midfield with poise and authority. Her influence was felt far beyond club level—voters from over a hundred countries took notice of her contributions. Meanwhile, Alexia Putellas, already twice honored with the award, continues to set an example and motivate aspiring players around the world.
The increasing spotlight on stars like Bonmatí and Putellas reflects a shift toward greater appreciation for women athletes within football honors. Media interest has surged since the inception of this award; recently, record-breaking crowds have flocked to watch top-tier women’s matches across Europe, including more than 91,000 fans at Camp Nou.
- increased investment in women’s teams by leading clubs,
- inspiration for new development initiatives from governing bodies,
- dedication of more resources to nurturing emerging talent,
- growing opportunities for female players at all levels,
- broader cultural change within sports.
The achievements of Bonmatí and Putellas underscore not only heightened competition among elite squads but also broader cultural change within sports. Their regular appearances among award finalists demonstrate how quickly standards have advanced since Ada Hegerberg claimed the inaugural prize just a few years ago. The women’s Ballon d’Or now stands as powerful evidence that women’s football holds an essential place in global sporting life—not only through accolades but also via swelling audiences, robust sponsorships, and deeper pools of talent throughout leagues worldwide.
Football Legends: Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and the Most Ballon d'Ors
Lionel Messi stands alone as the player with the most Ballon d’Or awards, claiming the honor eight times from 2009 to 2023. Close behind is Cristiano Ronaldo, who has earned the trophy five times. The rivalry between these two legends has fueled endless discussions about football greatness, leaving a lasting mark on the modern game. Both have dazzled fans with extraordinary performances for clubs such as FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Manchester United.
Messi’s record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023 pushed him further into uncharted territory—no one else has ever reached this milestone since the award’s inception in 1956. Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s five wins firmly establish him among football’s elite; only three others have managed to take home at least three trophies each:
- Johan Cruyff,
- Michel Platini,
- Marco van Basten.
The gap between Messi and Ronaldo’s totals underscores their incredible reliability and dominance across different leagues and competitions.
Both men are celebrated not just for their impressive goal tallies but also for their decisive roles in major tournaments.
- messi was instrumental in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in 2022,
- he surpassed 800 career goals at club level by early 2024,
- ronaldo’s prowess shines brightest in the Champions League,
- he has found the net over 140 times in the competition,
- no other player has matched Ronaldo’s Champions League scoring record.
Their influence goes beyond personal accolades; Messi and Ronaldo have redefined what individual success looks like while lifting their teams to new heights. Their unmatched achievements continue to inspire future stars aiming to match or exceed their collection of Ballon d’Ors. Debates about football’s greatest player inevitably revolve around these two figures due to their unparalleled records and far-reaching impact on global sports culture.
The era shaped by Messi and Ronaldo is remembered not only for a haul of individual trophies but also for leadership qualities, fair play, and rising to challenges on both domestic fronts and international stages. Few periods in football history can rival this golden age when it comes to sheer talent at its peak.
Looking Ahead: 2024 Ballon d'Or Winner Predictions and 2025 Nominees
The competition for the 2024 Ballon d’Or is shaping up to be intense, with most eyes on Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé as leading candidates. Haaland has been phenomenal for Manchester City, consistently finding the back of the net and playing a pivotal role in securing both domestic and European trophies. His remarkable tally—over 50 goals across recent campaigns—solidifies his position as a frontrunner for the prestigious award.
Meanwhile, Mbappé continues to impress at Paris Saint-Germain. With Euro 2024 on the horizon, many expect him to have a significant impact there as well, which could further boost his bid for the honor.
Major tournaments like Euro 2024 often sway voters’ opinions. Players who deliver standout performances on such big stages can quickly climb into contention. For instance, if Jude Bellingham of England or Spain’s Pedri lights up the tournament with exceptional displays, they might emerge as surprise challengers among the favorites.
Looking ahead to potential nominees in 2025, it wouldn’t be surprising to see established names alongside fresh faces making headlines. Young talents such as Jamal Musiala from Bayern Munich or Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal could enter the conversation if they continue to shine both at club level and internationally. At the same time, seasoned professionals like Kevin De Bruyne or Vinícius Júnior remain strong contenders thanks to their consistent brilliance for both club and country.
- individual moments of magic,
- vital statistics like goals and assists,
- leadership during high-pressure situations at tournaments like Euro 2024 or Copa América,
- overall influence on team achievements,
- the ability to inspire and elevate teammates.
Voters will weigh these factors as football constantly evolves, with each season introducing new stars ready to challenge established icons for football’s highest individual accolades.