In what many fans are calling a seismic shift in football history, the Ballon d’Or nominees list has been released — without Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi. While their absences have sparked outrage and disbelief among loyal supporters, there are several valid, albeit controversial, reasons why neither player made the cut in 2025.
First and foremost, performance must outweigh legacy. This year, both Ronaldo and Messi struggled to meet the elite standards they themselves set over the past two decades. Ronaldo, now in his 40s and playing in a less competitive league, has seen a noticeable dip in intensity and influence. While his goal tally remains respectable, critics argue that scoring in the Saudi Pro League cannot be equated with performance in Europe’s top five leagues or the Champions League.
Messi, on the other hand, despite his massive brand appeal and continued brilliance in flashes, has not dominated in the MLS to a level that justifies a Ballon d’Or nod. While his Inter Miami performances have been influential in growing football in the U.S., this award is about footballing excellence at the highest level — not global marketing or past glories.
Additionally, the Ballon d’Or has long been criticized for leaning too heavily on narrative and legacy votes. By excluding Messi and Ronaldo, the selection committee may finally be pivoting toward merit-based recognition. Players like Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Erling Haaland, and Jamal Musiala have not just performed — they’ve carried their teams in high-stakes European competitions and shown consistency across the season.
Let’s face it: sentimentality has no place in a trophy that should reward the *current* best. Football has entered a new era, and while we owe Messi and Ronaldo everything for what they’ve given the sport, their omission this year is not an injustice — it’s overdue realism.
