Messi and Ronaldo Absent from Ballon d'Or Nominees for First Time in Two Decades

Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Rodri among leading contenders as new generation takes center stage.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo omitted from Ballon d'Or shortlist for the first time since 2003.
Spain's Euro 2024 champions dominate the nominations with six players, including teenager Lamine Yamal.
Real Madrid has seven players nominated, including new signing Kylian Mbappe and standout Jude Bellingham.
England, the Euro 2024 runners-up, also have a strong presence with six nominees, led by Harry Kane.
The women's shortlist features six Barcelona players, including last year's winner Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas.