The 2024 Ballon d’Or nominations were announced on Wednesday, ushering in a new era for the prestigious award. For the first time since 2003, neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi made the cut, signifying a changing guard in the world of football.
England’s rising star, Jude Bellingham, is among the 30 nominated players, showcasing his meteoric rise to prominence. Ronaldo, a five-time winner, was absent from last year’s nominations as well. Messi, holding the record for most Ballon d’Or wins with eight and nominated 16 times, missed out despite Argentina’s triumph in the Copa America this year.
Spain, victorious at Euro 2024, boasts an impressive six nominees. This includes the prodigious 17-year-old Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, alongside Nico Williams, Alejandro Grimaldo, Dani Olmo, Rodri, and Dani Carvajal, the latter of whom also secured the Champions League title with Real Madrid.
Real Madrid itself boasts a remarkable seven nominees, showcasing their global dominance. Kylian Mbappe, their recent acquisition from Paris St Germain, leads the charge. Other notable nominees from the Spanish giants include Bellingham and Brazil’s Vinicius Junior.
England, the runners-up to Spain in Euro 2024, also boasts a strong presence with six players nominated. Besides Bellingham, the list features prolific striker Harry Kane, rising stars Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer, as well as midfielders Declan Rice and Phil Foden.
In the women’s category, reigning Champions League winners Barcelona dominate with six nominees. This includes last year’s winner Aitana Bonmati and two-time recipient Alexia Putellas, highlighting the club’s exceptional talent in women’s football.
The highly anticipated 2024 Ballon d’Or Awards ceremony, aiming to celebrate the world’s best footballers, will take place on October 28 in the glamorous city of Paris. With the absence of Ronaldo and Messi, this year’s ceremony promises to be a truly captivating affair, highlighting a new generation of talent ready to leave their mark on the world stage.
