Who has 8 Ballon d'Or?

Lionel Messi: The King of the Ballon d’Or

Since its creation in 1956, the Ballon d’Or has stood as the most prestigious individual honor in football, celebrating the world’s best player each year. Originally awarded only to European players, the criteria expanded over time, turning it into a truly global prize recognized by fans and experts alike.

Among the legends who’ve lifted the trophy—Cruyff, Platini, Zidane, Ronaldo—the name that now stands tallest is Lionel Messi. With an unmatched eight Ballon d’Or wins, Messi has redefined excellence in the modern game. His first came in 2009 during a historic treble-winning season with Barcelona, and he added more throughout the 2010s, showcasing consistency, brilliance, and evolution at the highest level.

While Cristiano Ronaldo comes close with five awards, it’s Messi who holds the record, a testament not just to his goal-scoring and playmaking genius, but to his longevity and impact across more than a decade of elite football. His eighth Ballon d’Or, awarded in September 2025, capped off a remarkable chapter that included triumphs with Argentina—most notably their 2022 World Cup victory—which further cemented his legacy.

What sets Messi apart isn’t just the number, but how he earned them: with quiet dominance, jaw-dropping moments, and a rare ability to elevate his team. Whether weaving through defenses or delivering pinpoint assists, he turned the beautiful game into art.

Today, as new stars rise, Messi’s eight Ballons remain a towering achievement—a benchmark for greatness in football history.