Leo Messi (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023)

A name that echoes through the hallowed halls of footballing legends, Lionel Messi, stands tall as a titan of the game. With an unprecedented eight Ballon d’Or awards adorning his mantelpiece, he has etched his name into the annals of football history. Lionel’s professional career took flight at FC Barcelona, where he blossomed into a global phenomenon.

Over the years, Lionel has amassed a staggering tally of goals over the years, leaving fans in awe and defenders in his wake. Lionel’s crowning glory, however, came on the international stage. In 2022, he captained Argentina to their first World Cup triumph in 36 years, finally fulfilling his lifelong dream of lifting the coveted trophy.

Karim Benzema (2022)

Karim Benzema, the football wizard, snagged the Ballon d’Or in 2022 after a dazzling career. His journey kicked off in Lyon, France, where he shone in Olympique Lyonnais’ youth academy before debuting in 2005. It wasn’t long before Real Madrid spotted his sparkle, snapping him up in 2009 with a hefty cheque.

At Real Madrid, Karim blossomed into a striking superstar. He wasn’t just about goals; his knack for linking up play and cooking up scoring chances was pure gold. He became the team’s heart, playing a pivotal role in bagging five UEFA Champions League crowns, four FIFA Club World Cups, and three La Liga titles.

Luka Modric (2018)

In 2018, Luka Modric, a midfield maestro, broke the norm by clinching the Ballon d’Or, an honor typically reserved for Messi and Ronaldo. His journey, marked by remarkable skill and vision, began in Croatia, flourished at Tottenham, and reached its zenith at Real Madrid.

At Madrid, Luka became an instrumental figure, weaving magic on the field with his precise passes and tactical brilliance. His goal tally, while lower than prolific strikers, spoke of crucial and timely contributions. That glorious year, Luka not only redefined midfield mastery but also reminded the world that football is more than just scoring goals—it’s about artistry and vision.

Cristiano Ronaldo (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)

Cristiano Ronaldo, a name synonymous with relentless ambition and extraordinary skill, has graced the football world with his talent. Nominated a record eighteen times for the Ballon d’Or, he clinched this prestigious award five times, showcasing his dominance in the sport. His illustrious career saw him shining at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, with a goal-scoring record that is nothing short of legendary.

Cristiano’s journey, punctuated by breathtaking goals and match-winning performances, epitomizes the pinnacle of football excellence. His five Ballon d’Or triumphs, spread over a decade, reflect a career built on consistency, hard work, and an insatiable hunger for success.

Pelé (2014)

Pelé, the legendary Brazilian footballer, never officially won the coveted Ballon d’Or award. However, in 2014, France Football, the organizers of the award, bestowed on him an honorary Ballon d’Or in recognition of his unparalleled contribution to the beautiful game.

This Brazilian icon, whose full name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, mesmerized the world with his play, predominantly at Santos and later at New York Cosmos. Pele’s goal-scoring record is legendary, netting over 1,000 goals in his career, which cements his status as one of the greatest ever. Pele’s era predated this award’s global scope, but his legacy outshines many who have lifted the trophy.