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The Ballon d'Or is one of the most prestigious individual awards in football, recognizing the best male and female players globally. Established in 1956, it symbolizes excellence and achievement in the sport. Winning the award can significantly enhance a player's career, elevating their status and marketability. It also reflects a player's performance over the preceding year, including their contributions to club and national teams, making it a benchmark for success in football.
Nominees for the Ballon d'Or are selected based on their performances over the previous season, including domestic league and international competitions. A panel of international journalists votes for the nominees, considering factors such as individual skill, team success, and overall impact on matches. The final shortlist typically includes 30 players, highlighting the most outstanding talents in football for that year.
Scott McTominay's nomination for the Ballon d'Or follows an impressive season with Napoli, where he played a crucial role in their Serie A title victory. His transition from Manchester United to Napoli marked a significant step in his career, showcasing his development as a player. His performances, including key contributions in matches and consistent displays of skill, earned him recognition among the elite players in the world.
Top contenders for the men's Ballon d'Or include notable players like Ousmane Dembele, Mohamed Salah, and Lamine Yamal. Dembele's standout performances with PSG, particularly during their treble-winning season, have put him in the spotlight. Salah's consistent excellence with Liverpool also makes him a favorite. The competition is fierce, with many players showcasing exceptional talent and achievements in the past season.
Winning the Ballon d'Or can significantly impact a player's career, enhancing their reputation and marketability. It often leads to increased sponsorship deals and higher transfer values. Moreover, the recognition can boost a player's confidence and motivate them to maintain high performance levels. For many players, it represents the pinnacle of individual achievement in football, influencing their legacy in the sport.
The women's Ballon d'Or, introduced in 2018, mirrors the men's award in recognizing the best female football players globally. While both awards consider similar criteria, including individual performance and team success, the women's edition aims to promote women's football and highlight its growing prominence. The competition in women's football has intensified, with many players achieving remarkable feats, making the award increasingly significant.
In 2025, historical milestones include the dominance of PSG in the men's Ballon d'Or nominations, with nine players recognized following their Champions League triumph. Additionally, five players from England's Euro 2025-winning squad were nominated for the women's Ballon d'Or, reflecting the success of English football on the international stage. These achievements highlight the evolving landscape of football and the rising standards of competition.
Previous Ballon d'Or winners, such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, have significantly shaped football history through their extraordinary skills and records. Their rivalry has pushed the boundaries of excellence, inspiring future generations of players. Their achievements, including multiple awards, have set high standards in the sport, influencing how players are evaluated and celebrated. Their legacies continue to impact football culture and the pursuit of greatness.
A successful season for players typically includes individual performance metrics such as goals scored, assists, and overall contributions to team success. Achievements like winning domestic leagues, continental tournaments, or international competitions also play a crucial role. Additionally, consistency in performance, impact in key matches, and recognition through awards or nominations contribute to defining a player's successful season.
Notable absences from the 2025 Ballon d'Or nominee list include prominent players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have historically dominated the award. Their absence marks a shift in the football landscape, indicating a new generation of talent emerging. This change reflects the evolving nature of the sport, where fresh stars are stepping into the limelight, reshaping the competition for individual accolades.
