As the most prestigious individual award in soccer, the Ballon d’Or captivates fans worldwide each year. In 2024, anticipation reached a fever pitch as the soccer community eagerly awaited the announcement of the latest recipient.
This coveted golden trophy represents the pinnacle of achievement, honoring the player deemed most outstanding over the previous season. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or casual observer, you’ll want to know which superstar etched their name in the annals of soccer history. Read on to discover who won the Ballon d’Or and the remarkable accomplishments that secured their place among the game’s elite.
Overview of The Prestigious Ballon d’Or Award
The Ballon d’Or, French for “Golden Ball,” is widely regarded as the most coveted individual honor in world football. Awarded annually by France Football magazine, this prestigious accolade recognizes the best male footballer of the year. As football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the announcement of who won the Ballon d’Or, it’s essential to understand the significance and history of this esteemed award.
First presented in 1956, the Ballon d’Or has evolved into a symbol of footballing greatness. Initially open only to European players, the award expanded its eligibility criteria in 1995 to include all players in European clubs. In 2007, it further broadened its scope to encompass players worldwide, truly becoming a global recognition of talent.
The Selection Process
The journey to determining who won the Ballon d’Or involves a rigorous selection process. A panel of international journalists votes based on a player’s individual and team performances throughout the year, as well as their overall career and reputation. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that the award reflects not just statistical achievements, but also the player’s impact on the sport as a whole.
Impact on Players’ Careers
Winning the Ballon d’Or can significantly elevate a player’s status in the football world. It often leads to increased media attention, lucrative sponsorship deals, and a place in football history. The award has been dominated by legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in recent years, but each season brings new contenders vying for this ultimate individual recognition.
As fans and pundits speculate on who won the Ballon d’Or, the anticipation builds, highlighting the award’s enduring prestige and its role in celebrating the pinnacle of footballing excellence.
Notable Nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or (MEN)
The 2024 Ballon d’Or race showcased an impressive lineup of football’s finest talents. Let’s delve into the notable nominees who stood out in the competition for football’s most prestigious individual award. These players exemplify the pinnacle of the sport, each demonstrating exceptional skill, consistency, and impact throughout the year.
Jude Bellingham (England, Real Madrid)
Bellingham’s meteoric rise continued at Real Madrid, where he seamlessly integrated into the midfield. His dynamic play, combining technical prowess with tactical intelligence, made him a standout performer. Bellingham’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively solidified his status as one of football’s most complete midfielders.
Erling Haaland (Norway, Manchester City)
Haaland’s goal-scoring exploits reached new heights, cementing his reputation as one of the world’s most lethal strikers. His physical presence, combined with clinical finishing, made him a nightmare for defenders. Haaland’s contributions were instrumental in Manchester City’s continued success, making him a strong contender for who won the Ballon d’Or.
Vinicius Junior (Brazil, Real Madrid)
Vinicius Junior’s electrifying pace and dribbling skills continued to dazzle audiences worldwide. His improved decision-making and end product elevated his game to new levels, making him a crucial component of Real Madrid’s attacking arsenal. Vinicius’ ability to create chances and score crucial goals in high-pressure situations strengthened his case for football’s top individual honor.
Rodri (Spain, Manchester City)
Often unsung, Rodri’s role in Manchester City’s midfield was pivotal. His positional awareness, passing range, and ability to control the tempo of matches provided the foundation for City’s success. Rodri’s contributions in both defensive and attacking phases of play underlined his importance to one of Europe’s top teams.
Kylian Mbappé (France, Paris Saint-Germain / Real Madrid)
Mbappé’s exceptional speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability continued to set him apart. Whether at PSG or following a high-profile move to Real Madrid, Mbappé’s impact on matches was undeniable. His versatility across the front line and ability to perform on the biggest stages made him a perennial favorite in discussions about who won the Ballon d’Or.
Notable Nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or (WOMEN)
The 2024 Ballon d’Or for women’s football showcased an impressive lineup of talented athletes who have made significant contributions to the sport. Let’s delve into the notable nominees who were in contention for this prestigious award.
Aitana Bonmatí (Spain, Barcelona)
Aitana Bonmatí continued to cement her status as one of the world’s best midfielders. Her exceptional vision, precise passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game made her an integral part of both Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Aitana Bonmati won the Ballon d’Or twice in 2023. Bonmatí’s performances in major tournaments and her consistency in club football put her in strong contention for who won the Ballon d’Or in 2024.
Ada Hegerberg (Norway, Olympique Lyonnais)
The Norwegian striker Ada Hegerberg maintained her reputation as one of the most clinical finishers in women’s football. Her goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the pitch for Olympique Lyonnais were crucial factors in her nomination. Hegerberg’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations and her impact on the biggest stages of women’s football made her a strong contender.
Alexia Putellas (Spain, Barcelona)
Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas continued to showcase her exceptional skills and leadership. Her technical ability, vision, and goal-scoring capabilities from midfield positions kept her in the conversation for who won the Ballon d’Or. Putellas’ influence on Barcelona’s success and her performances for the Spanish national team solidified her place among the nominees.
Barbra Banda (Zambia, Shanghai RCB / Orlando Pride)
Barbra Banda’s nomination highlighted her rising status in world football. The Zambian forward’s explosive pace, strength, and finishing ability caught the eye of fans and experts alike. Her performances for both club and country, particularly in international tournaments, earned her a place among the elite nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
Lucy Bronze (England, Barcelona / Chelsea)
Defender Lucy Bronze’s versatility and consistent performances at the highest level ensured her place among the nominees. Her ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, coupled with her leadership qualities, made her a standout player for both Barcelona and the English national team. Bronze’s impact on major tournaments and her role in her team’s successes put her in contention for the prestigious award.
Who Won the Ballon d’Or 2024? (MEN & WOMEN)
The Ballon d’Or, football’s most prestigious individual award, captivated the sports world once again in 2024. As fans and pundits eagerly awaited the announcement, speculation ran rampant about who would claim the coveted golden ball. This year’s ceremony recognized outstanding performances in both men’s and women’s football, showcasing the sport’s evolving landscape.
The men’s category saw fierce competition among the world’s elite players. Stellar performances in domestic leagues, international tournaments, and club competitions all factored into the final decision.
In the women’s category, the race for the golden ball was equally intense. The growing prominence of women’s football has elevated the significance of this award, with top players from around the globe vying for recognition.
Ballon d’Or Winner Rodri, (Men)
The prestigious award went to Rodri, the dynamic midfielder from Manchester City and Spain. This recognition marks a significant milestone in his career and solidifies his status as one of the world’s top footballers.
Rodri’s exceptional performance throughout the year showcased his versatility and impact on the pitch. His ability to control the tempo of the game, coupled with his defensive prowess and attacking contributions, made him a standout player for both club and country. The Spaniard’s consistent displays were crucial in Manchester City’s successful campaign, helping the team secure multiple trophies.
Key Achievements
Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win can be attributed to several notable accomplishments:
- Instrumental role in Manchester City’s treble-winning season
- Stellar performances in the UEFA Champions League
- Crucial contributions to Spain’s national team success
- Impressive statistics in passing accuracy and ball recoveries
While statistics played a part in Rodri’s Ballon d’Or victory, his influence extended beyond mere numbers. His leadership on the field, tactical awareness, and ability to dictate play made him an indispensable asset to his teams. Coaches and teammates alike praised his work ethic and professional attitude, further solidifying his case for the award.
Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win represents a shift in recognition for midfielders in the modern game. His triumph highlights the evolving nature of football, where the importance of a well-rounded, tactically astute midfielder is increasingly valued. This award not only celebrates Rodri’s individual brilliance but also acknowledges the critical role that midfielders play in today’s football landscape.
Ballon d’Or Winner Aitana Bonmati, (Women)
Aitana Bonmati’s remarkable achievement in securing the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the second consecutive year has solidified her status as one of the most exceptional talents in women’s football. Aitana Bonmati has won the Ballon d’Or twice, in 2023 and 2024. She made history by becoming the second woman to win the award in consecutive years, matching her Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas’ record.
Bonmati’s contributions to both Barcelona and the Spanish national team have been nothing short of extraordinary. Her vision, technical skills, and ability to control the tempo of matches have been instrumental in Barcelona’s continued dominance in domestic and European competitions. The midfielder’s influence extends beyond mere statistics, as her leadership and tactical acumen have elevated the performances of those around her.
Impact on Women’s Football
Winning the Ballon d’Or twice in a row is a testament to Bonmati’s consistency and impact on the game. Her achievements have not only inspired a new generation of female footballers but have also drawn increased attention to women’s football as a whole. The recognition of her talents through this prestigious award highlights the growing parity and respect for the women’s game at the highest levels.
Her sustained success raises the bar for midfielders worldwide and cements her place among the all-time greats of the sport. With her prime years still ahead, football fans eagerly anticipate what further accolades and milestones this exceptional talent will achieve in the seasons to come.
The Ballon d’Or winners not only earned personal accolades but also etched their names in football history. Their achievements will serve as benchmarks for future generations and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the beautiful game. As we reflect on the winners, it’s clear that their impact extends far beyond the trophy itself, influencing tactical approaches, training methods, and the dreams of young players worldwide.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony once again highlighted the incredible talent and dedication present in modern football, reminding us why this sport continues to captivate millions around the globe.
Ballon d’Or Winners List (Men & Women)
The Ballon d’Or is the most prestigious individual honor in football, awarded annually to the best player in the world. First presented in 1956, the award has been bestowed upon some of the greatest talents the sport has ever seen. In 2018, the Ballon d’Or expanded to include a women’s category, recognizing the exceptional achievements of female footballers. Below is the comprehensive list of Ballon d’Or winners, featuring both men’s and women’s recipients.
List of Men’s Ballon d’Or Award winners
| Year | Player | Nationality | Club |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | |||
| 2024 | Rodri | Spain | Manchester City |
| 2023 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | Inter Miami |
| 2022 | Karim Benzema | France | Real Madrid |
| 2021 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | Paris Saint-Germain F.C. |
| 2020 | not awarded | ||
| 2019 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | Barcelona |
| 2018 | Luka Modric | Croatia | Real Madrid |
| 2017 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Portugal | Real Madrid |
| 2016 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Portugal | Real Madrid |
| 2015 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | Barcelona |
| 2014 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Portugal | Real Madrid |
| 2013 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Portugal | Real Madrid |
| 2012 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | Barcelona |
| 2011 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | Barcelona |
| 2010 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | Barcelona |
| 2009 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | Barcelona |
| 2008 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Portugal | Manchester United |
| 2007 | Kaká | Brazil | Milan |
| 2006 | Fabio Cannavaro | Italy | Real Madrid |
| 2005 | Ronaldinho | Brazil | Barcelona |
| 2004 | Andriy Shevchenko | Ukraine | Milan |
| 2003 | Pavel Nedvěd | Czechia | Juventus |
| 2002 | Ronaldo | Brazil | Real Madrid |
| 2001 | Michael Owen | England | Liverpool |
| 2000 | Luís Figo | Portugal | Real Madrid |
| 1999 | Rivaldo | Brazil | Barcelona |
| 1998 | Zinedine Zidane | France | Juventus |
| 1997 | Ronaldo | Brazil | Internazionale |
| 1996 | Matthias Sammer | Germany | Borussia Dortmund |
| 1995 | George Weah | Liberia | Milan |
| 1994 | Hristo Stoichkov | Bulgaria | Barcelona |
| 1993 | Roberto Baggio | Italy | Juventus |
| 1992 | Marco van Basten | Netherlands | Milan |
| 1991 | Jean-Pierre Papin | France | Marseille |
| 1990 | Lothar Matthäus | Germany | Internazionale |
| 1989 | Marco van Basten | Netherlands | Milan |
| 1988 | Marco van Basten | Netherlands | Milan |
| 1987 | Ruud Gullit | Netherlands | Milan |
| 1986 | Igor Belanov | Soviet Union | Dynamo Kyiv |
| 1985 | Michel Platini | France | Juventus |
| 1984 | Michel Platini | France | Juventus |
| 1983 | Michel Platini | France | Juventus |
| 1982 | Paolo Rossi | Italy | Juventus |
| 1981 | Karl-Heinz Rummenigge | West Germany | Bayern Munich |
| 1980 | Karl-Heinz Rummenigge | West Germany | Bayern Munich |
| 1979 | Kevin Keegan | England | Hamburg |
| 1978 | Kevin Keegan | England | Hamburg |
| 1977 | Allan Simonsen | Denmark | Borussia Mönchengladbach |
| 1976 | Franz Beckenbauer | West Germany | Bayern Munich |
| 1975 | Oleg Blokhin | Soviet Union | Dynamo Kyiv |
| 1974 | Johan Cruyff | Netherlands | Barcelona |
| 1973 | Johan Cruyff | Netherlands | Barcelona |
| 1972 | Franz Beckenbauer | West Germany | Bayern Munich |
| 1971 | Johan Cruyff | Netherlands | Ajax |
| 1970 | Gerd Müller | West Germany | Bayern Munich |
| 1969 | Gianni Rivera | Italy | Milan |
| 1968 | George Best | Northern Ireland | Manchester United |
| 1967 | Flórián Albert | Hungary | Ferencv rosi TC |
| 1966 | Bobby Charlton | England | Manchester United |
| 1965 | Eusébio | Portugal | Benfica |
| 1964 | Denis Law | Scotland | Manchester United |
| 1963 | Lev Yashin | Soviet Union | Dynamo Moscow |
| 1962 | Josef Masopust | Czechoslovakia | Dukla Prague |
| 1961 | Omar Sívori | Italy | Juventus |
| 1960 | Luis Suárez | Spain | Barcelona |
| 1959 | Alfredo Di Stéfano | Argentina / Spain | Real Madrid |
| 1958 | Raymond Kopa | France | Real Madrid |
| 1957 | Alfredo Di Stéfano | Argentina / Spain | Real Madrid |
| 1956 | Stanley Matthews | England | Blackpool |
List of Women’s Ballon d’Or Award winners
| Year | Player | Nationality | Club |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | |||
| 2024 | Aitana Bonmati | Spain | Barcelona |
| 2023 | Aitana Bonmati | Spain | Barcelona |
| 2022 | Alexia Putellas | Spain | Barcelona |
| 2021 | Alexia Putellas | Spain | Barcelona |
| 2020 | not awarded | ||
| 2019 | Megan Rapinoe | USA | Reign FC |
| 2018 | Ada Hegerberg | Norway | Olympique Lyonnais |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about the Ballon d’Or winners.
How is the Ballon d’Or Winner Determined?
The selection process for the Ballon d’Or is rigorous and involves several steps:
- Nomination: France Football magazine compiles a list of 30 players.
- Voting: Journalists from top football nations cast their votes.
- Points system: Players receive points based on their ranking (1st place = 6 points, 2nd = 4 points, 3rd = 3 points, 4th = 2 points, 5th = 1 point).
- Tallying: The player with the most points is declared the winner.
What Factors Influence Who Won the Ballon d’Or?
Several factors play a role in determining who won the Ballon d’Or:
- Individual performance: Goals scored, assists made, and overall impact on the game.
- Team success: Winning major trophies with club and national teams.
- Consistency: Maintaining high-level performance throughout the year.
- Global impact: Popularity and influence on the sport worldwide.
It’s important to note that the Ballon d’Or considers performances from the previous season and the first few months of the current season. This means that exceptional displays in major tournaments like the UEFA Champions League or international competitions can significantly boost a player’s chances of winning.
Can past winners predict who won the Ballon d’Or?
While past winners can offer insights into potential candidates, each year brings new contenders and surprises. The award’s history showcases legendary players, but predicting who won the Ballon d’Or remains challenging until the official announcement.
Conclusion
As you’ve seen, the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony was a thrilling culmination of an exceptional year in football. The winner’s remarkable achievements on the pitch have rightfully earned them this prestigious accolade.
Their consistent brilliance, record-breaking performances, and pivotal role in their team’s success set them apart from an impressive field of contenders. While debates about individual awards in a team sport will always persist, there’s no denying the impact and excellence of this year’s recipient.
As we look ahead, the bar has been set high for future aspirants. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has not only etched their name in football history but also inspired the next generation of players to reach for greatness.