Ballon d'Or: What It Is and Why It Matters

If you follow football, you’ve probably heard the term Ballon d'Or. It’s the most prestigious individual award in the sport, handed out each year to the player judged to be the best in the world. Fans, journalists, and even coaches get a say, making it a true reflection of global opinion.

The award started in 1956, created by the French magazine France Football. Back then it was only for European players, but it soon opened up to anyone playing in Europe and, from 2007, to all players worldwide. That’s why you see legends like Messi, Ronaldo, and Mbappé on the winner’s list.

How the Ballon d'Or Is Chosen

The voting system is simple but thorough. A panel of journalists from each FIFA member nation gets a ballot. They rank their top five players, giving 5 points for first place, 4 for second, down to 1 point for fifth. The points are added up, and the player with the highest total wins.

In recent years, former Ballon d'Or winners and national team coaches have also been invited to vote, adding another layer of insight. The mix of media and player perspectives helps keep the result balanced and credible.

Recent Winners and Memorable Moments

From 2019 to 2023, Lionel Messi and Luka Modrić have dominated the headlines. Messi clinched his seventh trophy in 2021 after winning the Copa América, tying his award to a major international win. Modrić broke the Messi‑Ronaldo duopoly in 2018, celebrating Croatia’s World Cup run.

Ronaldo’s five‑time win record still stands, but his last trophy came in 2017. Since then, the award has highlighted emerging stars – for example, Kylian Mbappé was a close runner‑up in 2022, and Erling Haaland topped the shortlist in 2023.

Each ceremony brings its own drama. Players often give emotional acceptance speeches that touch on personal challenges, team victories, and the support of fans. Those moments turn a simple trophy into a cultural event.

Fans love to predict the next winner, and social media sparks endless debates. Some argue the award should favor players who win league titles, while others say individual brilliance should count even if the team falls short.

If you’re tracking the race, keep an eye on the major tournaments – the UEFA Champions League, World Cup, and continental championships have a huge impact on the voting. A standout performance on the biggest stage can swing the points in a player’s favor.

In addition to the main award, there are Ballon d'Or Féminin for women’s football and the Kopa Trophy for young talent. Those categories show how the ceremony is expanding to recognize excellence across the sport.

So whether you’re a casual fan or a die‑hard supporter, the Ballon d'Or offers a yearly snapshot of who’s ruling the game. Follow the nominations, watch the ceremony, and join the conversation – it’s one of football’s biggest celebrations.