2. Ronaldo and Franck Ribéry’s Ongoing Duel: The 2013 Controversy
During the period when Ronaldo and Messi consistently rivaled each other for the Ballon d’Or, they perpetually secured the top two spots in the voting, leading to discontent among fans who felt that other players, like Franck Ribery in 2013, deserved recognition. Ronaldo scored 66 goals that year but ended trophyless, while Ribery excelled with Bayern Munich, winning the Champions League. Nevertheless, Ronaldo narrowly edged out Ribery in the Ballon d’Or race, a victory that many found unconvincing due to his lack of major titles.
3. Modric’s Surprise Win in 2018: A Shift in Power
In 2018, Luka Modric’s Ballon d’Or victory raised eyebrows. Despite Lionel Messi’s three domestic titles with Barcelona, he trailed behind Modric in the voting. Modric’s dominant performance with Croatia in the World Cup, even though they ultimately lost to Griezmann’s France in the final, swayed the votes in his favor.
4. Messi’s 2019 Win: Champions League and Ongoing Debate
Throughout the last five years, Ballon d’Or winners have invariably lifted the Champions League trophy, including Messi (2015), Ronaldo (2014, 2016, 2017), and Modric (2018). Messi and Barcelona currently have La Liga titles under their belts and are eyeing a historic treble. However, the toughest challenge lies in capturing the Champions League, with a daunting clash against Liverpool in the semi-finals. Even if Barcelona falls short in Europe, Messi’s chance to surpass Ronaldo in Ballon d’Or wins remains, as he will represent Argentina in the Copa America while Ronaldo’s international competitions are finished for the season.
5. Messi’s Controversial 2021 Win: Lewandowski and the Debate
The 2021 Ballon d’Or race stirred considerable controversy, with Robert Lewandowski’s exceptional season vying for the award. However, Messi’s triumphant Copa America campaign with the Argentine national team ultimately clinched the prize, sparking debates and discussions about the legitimacy of his win.
The Ballon d’Or has consistently been a subject of debate and contention throughout its history. While Lionel Messi has secured the title multiple times, each win has been met with its share of controversies. Nevertheless, his enduring talent and impact on the footballing world make him a well-recognized and respected figure, even when the debates continue to rage on.
