Lionel Messi on top: 5 players with the most Ballon d’Or award wins

The Ballon d’Or is one of the most prestigious individual honors in football. Presented annually by the French magazine France Football since 1956, the award recognizes the male footballer deemed to have delivered the best performances over the previous season.

In 2022, the format was adjusted to align with the European football calendar. Rather than being awarded based on the calendar year, the Ballon d’Or now reflects performances over a full football season. The winner is selected by an international jury of specialized journalists—one from each of the top 100 nations in the FIFA Men’s World Rankings.

As of 2025, a total of 47 different players have claimed the Ballon d’Or, with some winning it multiple times. The current holder is Ousmane Dembélé of France and Paris Saint-Germain.

Here’s a look at the five players who have won the Ballon d’Or the most times in history:

1. Lionel Messi – 8 Ballon d’Or Wins

Widely considered the greatest footballer of all time, Lionel Messi has claimed a record eight Ballon d’Or titles. He first won the award in 2009, and most recently in 2023, highlighting an illustrious career that spans nearly two decades at the top of the game. His brilliance with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami, and the Argentina national team has defined an era.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo – 5 Ballon d’Or Wins

Messi’s long-time rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, ranks second with five Ballon d’Or wins. The Portuguese forward earned his first award in 2008 while at Manchester United, and added four more during his time with Real Madrid, with his last coming in 2017. Renowned for his athleticism, goal-scoring prowess, and longevity, Ronaldo remains one of football’s most iconic figures.

3. Michel Platini – 3 Ballon d’Or Wins

A legend of French football, Michel Platini won the Ballon d’Or three consecutive times in 1983, 1984, and 1985, becoming the first player to achieve this feat. He earned the honors for his exceptional performances with Juventus and the France national team, which he led to victory at UEFA Euro 1984.

⚽️ Countries with the most Ballon d’Or awards. pic.twitter.com/599jZ3nSjD

— Civixplorer (@Civixplorer) September 24, 2025

4. Johan Cruyff – 3 Ballon d’Or Wins

Dutch maestro Johan Cruyff won the Ballon d’Or three times—in 1971, 1973, and 1974—for his outstanding contributions to Ajax, Barcelona, and the Netherlands national team. A pioneer of “Total Football,” Cruyff’s influence extended beyond the pitch, shaping modern football through both his playing style and managerial philosophy.

5. Marco van Basten – 3 Ballon d’Or Wins

Regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history, Marco van Basten claimed the Ballon d’Or in 1988, 1989, and 1992. He starred for AC Milan and the Netherlands, famously leading his country to their only major international title at UEFA Euro 1988. Despite his talent, Van Basten’s career was cut short by a chronic ankle injury, and he played his final match at just 28 years old.

These legends have not only dominated their eras but have also left an indelible mark on the sport, setting standards for future generations of footballers.

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