The 2024 Ballon d’Or marks the beginning of a new chapter in world football, as the 30-man shortlist for the prestigious award was revealed on Wednesday. For the first time since 2003, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo are included among the nominees.
For almost 20 years, the two football icons have dominated the Ballon d’Or, taking home 15 of the 21 awards that have been awarded since 2003, including a streak of 21 straight from 2008 to 2017. Ronaldo last claimed the honor in 2017, and while he was not nominated in 2023, Messi won his eighth Ballon d’Or that year, making his exclusion from the 2024 list a surprising turn of events.
Despite their absence from the shortlist, both Messi and Ronaldo continue to deliver impressive performances. Messi, currently sidelined with an injury, has contributed 12 goals and 10 assists in just 12 games for Inter Miami CF. Meanwhile, Ronaldo tallied 35 goals in the 2023-24 season and has already netted two goals in two matches for Al-Nassr in the 2024-25 campaign.
However, both stars now play in leagues ranked below Europe’s top competitions, which likely influenced their exclusion. Messi’s MLS is rated the 12th-best league globally, while Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League ranks 33rd, according to GlobalFootballRankings. The lower level of competition, combined with their advancing age, has paved the way for younger talents to step into the spotlight.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced on October 28 in Paris, signaling the end of an era and the rise of a new generation in world football.
SOURCE: https://dew360.net
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