Who Has Won the Ballon d’Or? Full Winners List (1956–2025)

The Ballon d’Or Winners List is a celebration of football’s greatest players who have left an unforgettable mark on the sport. Since its introduction in 1956, this has been recognized as the highest individual honor in world football, rewarding players who deliver exceptional performances throughout the season.

Presented annually by France Football, the award takes into account a player’s individual brilliance, consistency, leadership, and contribution to their club and national team. Over the decades, this award’s history has featured some of the biggest names in football, including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Johan Cruyff, Michel Platini, Marco van Basten, Ronaldo Nazário, and Zinedine Zidane. From Stanley Matthews becoming the inaugural winner in 1956 to modern superstars dominating the award, every winner represents an era of excellence. While many legendary attackers have lifted the trophy, Lev Yashin remains the only goalkeeper in history to win this title, highlighting the award’s unique legacy.

No discussion of thos award’s record is complete without mentioning Lionel Messi, who holds the record with 8 titles, while Cristiano Ronaldo follows with five standing in 2nd position. Their remarkable rivalry shaped modern football and inspired millions of fans around the world.