The 2024 Ballon d’Or nominations have generated considerable buzz, marking a significant shift in the world of football. For the first time in over two decades, the names of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have dominated the award for years, are absent from the shortlist. This development underscores the changing dynamics of global football, as a new generation of talent rises to the forefront.
The End of an Era
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been synonymous with the Ballon d’Or for most of the 21st century. Between them, they have claimed the prestigious award 13 times, with Messi holding a record eight wins and Ronaldo five. Their absence from this year’s nominations is a stark reminder that even the greatest careers eventually begin to wind down. Messi, who won the 2023 Ballon d’Or after leading Argentina to World Cup glory, and Ronaldo, who has consistently been among the top performers globally, have both reached the twilight years of their storied careers.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or will, therefore, be a unique event, as it will be the first time since 2003 that a new face will be crowned without the towering presence of Messi or Ronaldo in contention. This shift opens the door for a new era of footballers to stake their claim as the world’s best.
The Contenders
This year’s list of nominees is a testament to the depth and diversity of talent currently gracing the football stage. Among the frontrunners for the men’s award is Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham. The 21-year-old English midfielder has quickly established himself as one of the most promising talents in the sport, combining technical skill with an impressive tactical understanding of the game. His performances for Real Madrid and the English national team have earned him widespread acclaim, and he is widely tipped as a strong contender for the award.
Another standout nominee is Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker has taken the football world by storm with his incredible goal-scoring ability. Haaland’s move to Manchester City has only amplified his reputation, as he continues to break records and lead his team to success. His power, speed, and clinical finishing make him one of the most feared forwards in the game, and he is expected to be a serious contender for the Ballon d’Or.
Arsenal’s Martin Ødegaard is another name to watch. The Norwegian playmaker has been instrumental in Arsenal’s resurgence in both the Premier League and European competitions. Ødegaard’s vision, creativity, and leadership on the field have made him a key figure for both his club and country, and his inclusion on the Ballon d’Or shortlist is a reflection of his growing influence in world football.
Kylian Mbappé, now at Real Madrid, and Vinícius Júnior are also among the nominees, highlighting the strength of Real Madrid’s squad. Mbappé, often touted as the heir to Messi and Ronaldo, has consistently delivered high-level performances, while Vinícius has developed into one of the most exciting wingers in the game.
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Women’s Ballon d’Or
On the women’s side, the competition is equally fierce. Aitana Bonmatí of Barcelona, who won the 2023 Ballon d’Or Feminin, is once again among the nominees. Bonmatí’s exceptional performances for both club and country have made her one of the top players in women’s football. Her leadership in midfield and ability to control games have been pivotal to Barcelona’s success in recent years, and she remains a favorite for the award.
Lauren James of Chelsea and Ada Hegerberg of Lyon are also strong contenders. James, known for her explosive pace and technical ability, has been a standout performer for Chelsea, while Hegerberg, a former Ballon d’Or winner herself, continues to impress with her goal-scoring prowess.
The women’s nominations highlight the growing recognition and visibility of female footballers on the global stage. The increasing competitiveness and quality in women’s football are evident in the diverse list of nominees, which includes players from various top clubs across Europe and the United States.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, scheduled for October 28 in Paris, is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent years. With new faces poised to take the spotlight, this year’s awards will not only celebrate individual brilliance but also signal the dawn of a new era in football. The absence of Messi and Ronaldo from the shortlist, while significant, also serves as a reminder of the sport’s ever-evolving nature, where new talents emerge to inspire the next generation of fans.
As the world eagerly awaits the announcement of the winners, the 2024 Ballon d’Or promises to be a defining moment in the history of football, ushering in a fresh wave of talent ready to leave their mark on the beautiful game.
