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**For the first time in 21 years, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are not among the 30 nominees for the Ballon d’Or, the award given to the best footballer in the world.**
Messi, the record holder of eight Ballon d’Ors, was not included among the nominees for this year’s award, which will be presented on October 28. Cristiano Ronaldo, a five-time winner of the trophy, was also left out.
The last time the two stars were not on the list of nominees was in 2003.
Vinicius Junior, Rodri, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane are among the candidates for the award given by the French newspaper L’Equipe.
Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami, won the award last year after beating Haaland in the voting.
The Argentine star won his first Ballon d’Or in 2009, the start of a four-year run of winning the award. He was first nominated in 2006.
Messi and Cristiano turned the Ballon d’Or race into a two-man affair at the height of their careers, combining to win it 13 times since 2008.
Cristiano’s first nomination was in 2004, when the Portuguese broke through with Manchester United.
#Messi #Ronaldo #nominated #Ballon #dOr
2024-09-05 21:23:18
The End of an Era: Messi and Ronaldo Omitted from Ballon d’Or Nominees
Table of Contents
For the first time in 21 years, the world of football is witnessing a significant shift. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two titans of the sport and perennial frontrunners for the prestigious Ballon d’Or, have not been included in the list of nominees for the 2023 award. This groundbreaking absence highlights a new era in football as the focus shifts to a younger generation of talent.
A Historic Shift in Football
The Ballon d’Or, introduced in 1956, has been awarded annually to the best footballer in the world as voted by international journalists. Lionel Messi, with an astounding record of eight Ballon d’Ors, and Cristiano Ronaldo, a five-time winner, dominated this award for over two decades. Their absence from the nominees marks the end of a remarkable chapter in football history.
Previous Absence from Nominees
The last time Messi and Ronaldo were not featured among the Ballon d’Or nominees was in 2003. Since then, they have defined the sport with their unparalleled talent, fierce rivalry, and numerous records. Their era has influenced countless players and inspired millions of football fans around the globe.
New Faces in the Race
As the football landscape evolves, fresh talent emerges to take the spotlight. This year, the nominees include a mix of established stars and rising prospects, showcasing the future of football. Among the nominees are:
- Vinicius Junior: The Brazilian forward has electrified fans with his speed and dribbling ability, playing a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s success.
- Rodri: The Manchester City midfielder has been crucial in the club’s midfield, contributing to their dominance in both domestic and European competitions.
- Jude Bellingham: This young English midfielder has impressed with his maturity and skill, rapidly becoming one of the top players in Europe.
- Kylian Mbappé: The French forward continues to be a formidable force, dazzling audiences with his remarkable pace and goal-scoring prowess.
- Erling Haaland: The Norwegian striker has taken the football world by storm, breaking records and establishing himself as a goal-scoring machine at Manchester City.
What This Means for Football Fans
The exclusion of Messi and Ronaldo from the Ballon d’Or nominees is not just about two players; it represents a significant change in the football narrative. Fans can expect to see the next generation of superstars take control of the game. This shift provides an exciting opportunity for other players to showcase their talents and achievements.
Upcoming Ballon d’Or Ceremony
The 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held on October 28, and it promises to be a historic event. As fans worldwide await the announcement of the winner, there will be discussions and debates about the nominees, insights into their performances over the last year, and speculations on the direction of football’s future.
Conclusion: A New Era Dawns
The absence of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo from the Ballon d’Or nominees signals a pivotal transition in football—one that emphasizes emerging talent and the changing dynamics of the sport. While the legacy of these two legendary players will always be remembered, fans can look forward to witnessing the rise of new icons in the beautiful game.
For those seeking updates and insights on the upcoming Ballon d’Or ceremony and the future of football, stay tuned as we keep you informed on the latest news and developments!
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