In a surprising shift that signals a changing of the guard in world football, the names of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are notably absent from the just-unveiled 30-man shortlist for the 2025 Ballon d’Or award. The announcement, made on Wednesday by France Football, has drawn attention across global football circles as it marks the first time in over 15 years that neither of the two iconic players features in the final nomination list.
The absence of the two legendary figures, who have dominated the award for nearly two decades, sharing 13 Ballon d’Or titles between them, points to a new era taking shape, where younger talents and emerging stars are now commanding the spotlight. Analysts suggest the shift is a reflection of recent performances on the European and global stages, as well as the waning influence of both Messi and Ronaldo in top-tier club football over the past year.
Among those shortlisted for the prestigious honour are standout performers from the 2024/2025 season, including France’s Kylian Mbappé, who led Real Madrid to a domestic double, and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, whose consistent form continues to earn global admiration. England’s Cole Palmer also makes the list after an outstanding debut season with Chelsea, during which he scored crucial goals and emerged as a creative force in the Premier League.
Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal, still only 17, earned his place after a breakout campaign and remarkable performances for both club and country, drawing comparisons to elite players of previous generations. France international Ousmane Dembélé also features, following an impressive run of form for Paris Saint-Germain.
This year’s Ballon d’Or list appears to place greater emphasis on current form, consistency, and influence in key competitions such as the UEFA Champions League, domestic leagues, and international tournaments, rather than historical reputation. The shift is seen by many as a deliberate move to spotlight fresh talent and reward active impact on the field.
While fans of both Messi and Ronaldo have expressed disappointment over their omission, some pundits argue that the decision is long overdue, considering their recent transitions, Messi’s move to Major League Soccer with Inter Miami and Ronaldo’s ongoing campaign in the Saudi Pro League with Al Nassr, where the level of competition is not on par with Europe’s elite leagues.
The Ballon d’Or, regarded as football’s most prestigious individual accolade, will be awarded later in the year at a gala ceremony in Paris. With the race now wide open, football enthusiasts and experts alike will be watching closely to see which of the new generation will emerge as the game’s newest global icon.
