The Ballon d’Or is a prestigious award that has been recognizing the best footballers in the world since 1956. This year, the winners will be announced on October 28 in Paris. The award is decided by 100 journalists, with each journalist selecting their top 10 picks from a 30-player shortlist. The points are then allocated based on the ranking, with the player earning the most points winning the Ballon d’Or.
In the men’s category, there are several notable names on the shortlist, including Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Harry Kane. However, the absence of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo guarantees a first-time winner this year. Messi, who won the award eight times, did not make it to the shortlist despite his success in the MLS and leading Argentina to Copa America glory.
On the women’s side, players like Ada Hegerberg, Alexia Putellas, and Caroline Graham Hansen are in contention for the award. The women’s game has seen Spanish players dominating the award in recent years, with Alexia Putellas winning it twice.
It’s interesting to note that goalkeepers have historically struggled to win the Ballon d’Or, with Lev Yashin being the only goalkeeper to have won it. Emiliano Martinez currently holds the Yashin Trophy for the best-performing goalkeeper.
During the award ceremony, other accolades like the Kopa Trophy for the best player under 21, the Gerd Muller Trophy for the top scorer of the previous season, and the Club and Coach of the Year trophies will also be presented.
Overall, the Ballon d’Or is a highly anticipated event in the football world, and this year’s edition promises to provide a fresh winner in the men’s category. Stay tuned for the announcement on October 28 to find out who will be crowned the best footballer in the world.