Ballon d’Or Finalists Revealed, Cristiano Ronaldo Absent From List

France Football Magazine has revealed the highly anticipated final shortlist for the prestigious Ballon d’Or trophy. The star-studded lineup includes Lionel Messi, who guided Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, Erling Haaland, the triumphant force behind English club Manchester City’s major treble last season, and the reigning champion, Karim Benzema. Football fans around the world eagerly await the announcement of the winner on October 30.Lionel Messi, a seven-time Ballon d’Or victor, stands as the frontrunner for this year’s accolade. His exceptional performance leading Argentina to World Cup triumph in Qatar is a testament to his enduring brilliance. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland, recently honored with the UEFA Player of the Year award, poses a formidable challenge. Notably, for the first time in two decades, Cristiano Ronaldo’s name is conspicuously absent from the list.

In the women’s category, Barcelona’s Alexia Putias, a two-time winner in the previous edition, is notably absent. Instead, the women’s 30-player shortlist features Chelsea’s Sam Kerr, Millie Bright, and Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati, who secured victory in the Women’s World Cup with Spain just last month.The race for the coveted best goalkeeper award, the Yashin Award, includes World Cup champion Emiliano Martinez, Manchester City’s star Ederson, and La Liga’s Golden Glove winner, Marc-Andre Terstegen.Football enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the crowning of this year’s Ballon d’Or laureate, as the anticipation continues to build.