Lionel Messi Holds Record with Eight Ballon d’Or Wins

The Ballon d’Or remains football’s most coveted individual award, celebrating the world’s finest players for their exceptional performances. Over the decades, only a select few have claimed the honour multiple times, cementing their legacy in football history.

At the pinnacle of this elite list is Argentina’s Lionel Messi, who holds the record with eight Ballon d’Or trophies. Messi secured the award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2023, showcasing unmatched consistency and brilliance over more than a decade.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Fierce rival Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal follows with five wins, having lifted the award in 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017. Other legendary multiple-time winners include Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten, each claiming three trophies. Notable two-time winners include Franz Beckenbauer, Ronaldo Nazário, Alfredo Di Stefano, Kevin Keegan, and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

Full list of multiple Ballon d’Or winners:

1. Lionel Messi – 8 (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023)

2. Cristiano Ronaldo – 5 (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)

3. Michel Platini – 3 (1983, 1984, 1985)

4. Johan Cruyff – 3 (1971, 1973, 1974)

5. Marco van Basten – 3 (1988, 1989, 1992)

6. Franz Beckenbauer – 2 (1972, 1976)

7. Ronaldo – 2 (1997, 2002)

8. Alfredo Di Stefano – 2 (1957, 1959)

9. Kevin Keegan – 2 (1978, 1979)

10. Karl-Heinz Rummenigge – 2 (1980, 1981)

Football experts praise Messi’s record as a benchmark of excellence in modern football. According to analysts, “Messi’s ability to maintain top-level performance across different eras of the game sets him apart as the greatest individual talent in football history.”

The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony is highly anticipated, with fans eager to see which star will rise next in this prestigious lineage.