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Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ballon d’Or Doubts Resurface Amidst Omission from 2024 Shortlist
Cristiano Ronaldo’s sensational claims that the Ballon d’Or and The Best awards are “losing credibility” have resurfaced after the 30-player shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or was announced. The 5-time Ballon d’Or winner had missed out to Lionel Messi in both awards, leading him to question the process of selecting the winners.
Speaking to Record in January 2024, Ronaldo emphasized the importance of considering his entire season’s performance, stating, “It’s not to say that Messi didn’t deserve it, or Haaland or even Mbappe. But the numbers are there and the numbers don’t deceive. You have to consider the entire season.” He also reflected on his second spell at Manchester United, admitting it didn’t go as expected, but highlighted his successful period at Al-Nassr, where he scored 54 goals.
Ronaldo’s confidence in his abilities is evident, as he has also slammed critics of the Saudi Pro League, claiming it is better than France’s Ligue 1.
For the first time in over two decades, neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi have been nominated for the Ballon d’Or. The shortlist was announced on September 8, and the duo, who have won a combined 13 Ballon d’Or awards, were omitted for the first time since 2003. The two greats are currently playing outside Europe, with Messi at MLS side Inter Miami and Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. Other active players who have won the award, Karim Benzema and Luka Modric, were also omitted. This means that the recipient of the award on October 28 will be a first-time winner.
The omission of these legendary players from the shortlist marks a significant shift in the football landscape, and the winner of the 2024 Ballon d’Or will be a new face in the sport.