Since Karim Benzema of Real Madrid won this year’s Ballon d’Or, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi didn’t place in the top three in the rankings for the first time in 16 years.
The two superstars have dominated the most prestigious individual award in international soccer since 2005. It is given to the greatest men’s soccer player of the year and is decided by a vote of 100 journalists from across the globe. The two have each taken home the award 12 times.
But at the awards ceremony on Monday in Paris, Messi, who had just won his eighth prize, failed to reach the shortlist for the first time since 2005, while Ronaldo placed 20th, his lowest result in 17 years.
With his victory, Benzema became only the second player since 2008—after Real Madrid’s Luka Modric—to receive the honor without Ronaldo or Messi.
“This award in front of me makes me incredibly pleased,” Benzema said. Benzema helped Real Madrid win the Champions League and La Liga in 2021–2022, scoring 44 goals in 46 games.
“I never gave up on my childhood aspiration when I was younger. Everything is conceivable.
Sadio Mane of Bayern Munich, who played for Liverpool from 2021 to 2022, came in second place, ahead of Kevin de Bruyne of Manchester City, who came in third.
The Women’s Ballon d’Or was held by Alexia Putellas of FC Barcelona, while Barcelona and Spain midfielder Gavi earned the Kopa Trophy, which is given to the best player under the age of 21.
Once she had her prize in hand, Putellas said, “I’m so glad to be back here.” “I was able to earn this reward a year ago, and it inspired me to strive for greater success.
“I couldn’t have done this without my teammates. I also want to thank the coach and the technical team. And to express my gratitude to all club members participating off the field.