January 21, (THEWILL) – Cristiano Ronaldo has criticised the Ballon d’Or and FIFA Best awards, claiming they are “losing credibility” after he was overlooked for both prizes in 2023. The 38-year-old striker scored 54 goals in 2023 for Portugal and his new club Al Nassr, more than winners Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
Despite his standout year, Ronaldo did not make the shortlist for the 2023 Ballon d’Or or FIFA Best Men’s Player award. Both awards were won by long-term rival Lionel Messi, largely thanks to his inspiring World Cup win with Argentina. Ronaldo told Portuguese outlet Record that while Messi deserved recognition, the voting panels should consider full seasons, arguing “the numbers don’t deceive”.
Ronaldo pointed to his own standout stats in 2023, including 54 goals scored across club and country. He suggested his achievements were overlooked due to a tough end to his spell at Manchester United, followed by his controversial move to Saudi Arabia. The 38-year-old claimed “people actually considered me lost” before his prolific goal run at new club Al Nassr.
The legendary forward has not won an individual trophy since 2017 when he last lifted the Ballon d’Or and Best FIFA Men’s Player prizes. Only Messi has won more of football’s top individual accolades, with 11 Ballons d’Or and Best awards combined. Ronaldo trails on 7 wins split across the two awards.
The Portuguese icon argued that consistent outstanding seasons should be recognised by the Ballon d’Or and FIFA voting panels. With 54 goals in 2023, he believes he has a right to feel aggrieved at being excluded from the nominees.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
