September 5, 2024 10:47 AM

End of an era: Ronaldo and Messi absent from Ballon d’Or nominations for the first time in over 20 years

For the first time in over two decades, football greats Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi will not feature in the Ballon d'Or nominations. Messi has won this prestigious award a record 8 times, including last year. The Portuguese superstar has received the award 5 times. Ronaldo currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, while Messi is in the United States, playing for Inter Miami, where he helped the club lift their maiden trophy. Ronaldo won his first Ballon d'Or in 2008 while pla...