Ballon d’Or Winners: From Messi to Ronaldo, A Complete List

The prestigious Ballon d'Or award, recognizing the world's best football player, has seen an array of remarkable winners over the years. From legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to earlier icons such as Zinedine Zidane, the list of recipients is a testament to football's rich history.

Lionel Messi, often hailed as one of the greatest of all time, has clinched the award a record seven times, showcasing his dominance in the sport. His long-time rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, is not far behind with five Ballon d'Or titles, highlighting their incredible competition that has captivated fans worldwide.

The award's history stretches back to 1956, with Stanley Matthews receiving the inaugural honor. Since then, it has been awarded annually, except for a brief hiatus in 2020 due to the global health crisis. The list of winners includes football legends like Johan Cruyff, Michel Platini, and Ronaldo Nazário, each contributing uniquely to the sport's legacy.

The Ballon d'Or not only celebrates individual brilliance but also reflects the evolving nature of football. As the sport continues to grow, new talents emerge, vying for this coveted prize and adding their names to the illustrious list of winners.

• Ballon d'Or
• Cristiano Ronaldo
• Lionel Messi