Ballon d'Or: The 5 most disputed winners

World 11 September 2025 at 12:23

Imed Ben Amara

News Editor

It's never easy to get everyone to agree on who deserves the title of best player of the year, but some winners have sparked heated debate among observers. Here’s a look at the top 5 most controversial Ballon d’Or recipients.

Michael Owen in 2001

Michael Owen claimed the Ballon d’Or while playing for Real Madrid. However, that year, most eyes were on Oliver Kahn and Raul.

Lionel Messi in 2010

Wesley Sneijder, who had a dream World Cup run with the Netherlands and clinched a treble—Serie A, Coppa Italia, and the Champions League—was overlooked. Instead, it was Lionel Messi who took home the honor.

Also read: Ballon d'Or 2025: Favorites and everything you need to know about the prestigious ceremony

Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013

Despite winning the Bundesliga, the German Cup, and the Champions League with Bayern Munich, Franck Ribery was snubbed as the Ballon d’Or went to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Lionel Messi in 2019

2019 was the year of Liverpool’s Reds, who defeated Tottenham in the Champions League final. Nevertheless, Lionel Messi secured the ultimate prize instead of Virgil van Dijk, who was named man of the final after a phenomenal season.

Pavel Nedved in 2003

That year, Thierry Henry arguably deserved the award, boasting incredible stats: 42 goals and 26 assists in 68 matches across all competitions.