The First Nominees List Without Messi and Ronaldo Since 2003

Ballon d’Or 2025: The First Nominees List Without Messi and Ronaldo Since 2003
Ballon d’Or 2025: The First Nominees List Without Messi and Ronaldo Since 2003

Ballon d’Or 2025: The First Nominees List Without Messi and Ronaldo Since 2003

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1. A Historic Shift in Football’s Golden Standard

Lionel Messi: FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo, comparing legends' World Cup records - The Economic Times

For the first time in over two decades, the Ballon d’Or 2025 nominees list does not feature Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. This marks the end of an era that began in 2003, when both players started their legendary dominance of world football. Their absence is more than symbolic—it’s a signal that the footballing world is entering a new chapter.

2. The End of a 20-Year Duopoly

Between them, Messi and Ronaldo have won 13 Ballon d’Or titles—Messi with 8 and Ronaldo with 5. From 2007 to 2023, at least one of them was always present among the top contenders. Their consistent excellence redefined what greatness looked like in football. Now, for the first time since 2003, the shortlist is free of their names.

3. Why Were They Left Out?

Messi’s move to Inter Miami and Ronaldo’s shift to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League have taken them out of the European spotlight. Despite Ronaldo scoring 54 goals last season, the Ballon d’Or panel seems to have prioritized performances in UEFA competitions and top-tier leagues.

4. The New Faces of Football

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The 2025 nominees include a fresh generation of stars:

  • Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
  • Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
  • Kylian Mbappé (PSG)
  • Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid)
  • Rodri (Manchester City)

These players have delivered standout performances in the Champions League, domestic leagues, and international tournaments.

5. Rising Stars to Watch

Young talents like Lamine Yamal, Cole Palmer, and Bukayo Saka have also made the list, showcasing the depth of emerging talent. Their inclusion reflects a broader shift toward youth, dynamism, and versatility in modern football.

6. Fan Reactions: Nostalgia Meets Excitement

Social media has been buzzing with mixed emotions:

“It’s surreal not seeing Messi or Ronaldo. But it’s time for new legends to rise.” “Bellingham and Haaland are the future. The torch has been passed.”

7. Media Coverage and Global Buzz

Major outlets like and have confirmed this historic omission, sparking debates about legacy, relevance, and the criteria for selection.

8. What This Means for Football’s Future

The absence of Messi and Ronaldo opens the door for new narratives. It’s a chance for younger players to build their own legacies and for fans to embrace a more diverse and competitive landscape.

9. The Ballon d’Or Criteria: A Changing Lens

The Ballon d’Or has always valued individual brilliance, but recent years show a tilt toward team success, tactical impact, and consistency across competitions. Players like Rodri and Bellingham exemplify this shift.

10. Remembering the Legends

Messi and Ronaldo may be absent from the list, but their influence remains. Their records, style, and competitive spirit continue to inspire the next generation. They’ve set a benchmark that will take years to match.

11. Who’s Most Likely to Win?

Based on the latest rankings and performance data, the most likely winner of the Ballon d’Or 2025 is Ousmane Dembélé of Paris Saint-Germain.

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Why Dembélé Leads the Race

  • Historic Treble: Dembélé played a pivotal role in PSG’s 2024/25 season, helping the club win Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Champions League.
  • Staggering Stats: He scored 37 goals and provided 14 assists in 59 matches, dominating both domestic and European competitions.
  • Odds Favorite: According to Polymarket, Dembélé has an 81.9% chance of winning the Ballon d’Or this year

12. A New Era for Fans and Collectors

With new stars rising, fans are shifting their loyalty and collections. Jerseys, boots, and memorabilia from Mbappé, Haaland, and Vinícius Jr. are becoming hot commodities.

13. Shop the Future of Football

Celebrate the new generation of football icons with official merchandise from your favorite clubs and players. for jerseys, scarves, collectibles, and more. Every purchase supports youth football and stadium development in Kenya.

14. Stay Connected with Us

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