# The 7 Players with the Most Ballon d'Or Awards in Football History
The Ballon d'Or is one of football's most prestigious individual accolades, awarded annually to the best-performing player in the world. Since its inception in 1956, the award has recognized the game's greatest talents, with a select few achieving legendary status by winning it multiple times. Here’s a look at the seven players with the most Ballon d'Or trophies in history.
**1. Lionel Messi (8 Ballon d'Ors)**
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, holds the record for the most Ballon d'Or awards, having won it an unprecedented eight times (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023). Known for his extraordinary vision, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability, Messi has been the cornerstone of success for clubs like Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentine national team, leading Argentina to Copa América (2021) and FIFA World Cup (2022) triumphs.
**2. Cristiano Ronaldo (5 Ballon d'Ors)**
Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s long-time rival, has won the Ballon d'Or five times (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017). Renowned for his unmatched athleticism, goal-scoring prowess, and leadership, Ronaldo has enjoyed an illustrious career with clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He has also been instrumental in Portugal's success, securing the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019.
**3. Michel Platini (3 Ballon d'Ors)**
Michel Platini dominated the Ballon d'Or in the 1980s, winning it three consecutive times (1983, 1984, 1985). As a creative midfielder, Platini was the heart of Juventus and the French national team, leading France to victory in the 1984 European Championship. His vision and precision on the ball earned him a permanent place among football legends.
**4. Johan Cruyff (3 Ballon d'Ors)**
Johan Cruyff, a pioneer of modern football, won the Ballon d'Or three times (1971, 1973, 1974). The Dutch maestro was the face of "Total Football," a revolutionary tactical approach that emphasized fluid positional play. Cruyff’s impact was profound at Ajax, Barcelona, and the Netherlands national team, cementing his legacy as a footballing innovator.
**5. Marco van Basten (3 Ballon d'Ors)**
Marco van Basten, a clinical striker known for his elegance and technical skill, secured the Ballon d'Or three times (1988, 1989, 1992). A key figure in AC Milan’s dominance and the Netherlands’ 1988 European Championship win, van Basten’s career was tragically cut short by injuries, but his brilliance remains unmatched.
**6. Franz Beckenbauer (2 Ballon d'Ors)**
Franz Beckenbauer, nicknamed "Der Kaiser," is one of the few defenders to win the Ballon d'Or, earning the award twice (1972, 1976). As a central figure in Bayern Munich’s and West Germany’s success, Beckenbauer redefined the sweeper role and led his teams to multiple domestic and international titles, including the 1974 FIFA World Cup.
**7. Ronaldo Nazário (2 Ballon d'Ors)**
Ronaldo Nazário, famously known as "El Fenómeno," won the Ballon d'Or twice (1997, 2002). The Brazilian striker's exceptional skill, speed, and finishing ability dazzled fans worldwide. He played a crucial role in Brazil's 2002 FIFA World Cup triumph and left a lasting legacy at clubs like Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid.
Honorable Mentions
Several players, including Alfredo Di Stéfano, Kevin Keegan, and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, have won the Ballon d'Or twice, but they narrowly miss out on this list due to the dominance of the players mentioned above.
Summary
The Ballon d'Or serves as a testament to individual brilliance in football. Players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have set a new benchmark for consistency and excellence, while legends like Cruyff and Platini revolutionized the game in their eras. These players not only shaped the history of football but also inspired countless fans and aspiring athletes worldwide.
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