Superstar Lionel Messi holds the record for the most Ballon d’Or titles in history.
In the early hours of September 5, France Football officially announced the list of 30 nominees for the 2024 men’s Ballon d’Or. Notably, Lionel Messi was not included on the list.
This outcome is seen as a turning point, signaling the end of Messi’s dominance in this award, opening the door for younger players. However, Messi still holds remarkable records at the Ballon d’Or that may never be broken.
Messi Holds the Record for the Most Ballon d’Or Titles in History
Most Ballon d’Or Titles
In history, only two players have won three or more Ballon d’Ors. Messi holds the record with eight wins, followed by Ronaldo with five. Given the intense competition in modern football, it’s extremely difficult for any player to maintain top form long enough to win the Ballon d’Or repeatedly.
In 2021, after winning his seventh Ballon d’Or, Messi himself acknowledged that his record would be hard to surpass.
“I don’t know if my record (number of Ballon d’Or wins) will ever be broken,” Messi admitted, “I’m not sure if anyone can surpass it.”
Messi Has Won a Total of Eight Ballon d’Ors Throughout His Career
Most Ballon d’Ors by Age 25
Names like Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and Vinicius Jr. are expected to potentially take over the Ballon d’Or in the future. However, Mbappe is already about to turn 26, while Vinicius and Haaland are both 24 and have yet to win the award.
By contrast, at age 25, Messi had already won four Ballon d’Ors — a world football record. Three out of those four times, Ronaldo finished second. Despite competing in an era with other notable players like Ronaldo, Andres Iniesta, and Xavi, Messi still managed to dominate.
Messi’s Dominant Form Came During His Time at Barcelona
Winning Four Consecutive Ballon d’Ors
Winning a single Ballon d’Or is difficult, but Messi managed to win four in a row, from 2009 to 2012. Ronaldo had an impressive run as well, but it took him five years (2013-2017) to win four Ballon d’Ors.
“To be honest, this is unbelievable. I can’t describe what it feels like to win a fourth Ballon d’Or. I want to express my gratitude to my teammates at Barcelona. Iniesta, it’s amazing to train and play alongside you.
I also want to thank my teammates at the Argentina national team. Thanks to everyone who has supported me, and especially to my family and friends. Most importantly, to my wife and children,” Messi shared after winning his fourth consecutive Ballon d’Or.
