Messi and Ronaldo have been the greatest footballer in the world; ever since 2008, they both have been awarded the Ballon d’Or in every season barring the 2018 season where Luka Modric won the award. Cristiano Ronaldo has won the title on five occasions, come second on six occasions, and finished third on one occasion. Whereas his arch-rival Messi; has finished first on seven occasions, second of five occasions, and third on one occasion.
In the 2021 season of the Ballon d’Or; Messi has been able to secure the award for the seventh time. After winning the award he expressed that “It’s incredible to be here again. Two years ago I thought it was the last time. Winning the Copa America was key.” Later he added that “I’d like to mention Robert, it’s been a real honour to compete with him.” Messi further expressed that “I think France Football should award you (Lewandowski) your 2020 Ballon d’Or, you deserved it.” Do you think Robert Lewandowski is more deserving of the award in this edition of the cup?
The top twenty finishes in this edition of the Ballon d’Or!
The top positions consisted of; Riyad Mahrez (20th), Mason Mount (19th), Simon Kjare (18th); Luis Suarez (17th), furthermore Neymar (16th), Sterling (15th), Bonucci (14th), Chiellini (13th), Lukaku (12th) and lastly young Erling Haaland (11th).
Above them came; Donnarumma (10th), Mbappe (9th), De Bruyne (8th), Salah (7th), Ronaldo (6th); Kante (5th), Benzema (4th); lastly the top three consisted of Jorginho in third, Lewandowski in second and Messi in first.
This award has received a lot of criticism as many believe that there should be more merit-based around the award; rather than the winner being declared from a voting system wherein the most popular player is more likely to win. What are your views on the Ballon d’Or?
