Messi nominated for Ballon d'Or after 2-year absence, Ronaldo misses out for 4th straight year

Lionel Messi has returned to the 30-man Ballon d'Or shortlist after missing out for two straight years. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner captained Argentina to FIFA World Cup 2026 final, scoring eight goals. He also helped Inter Miami win their first MLS Cup in 2025. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has missed out on Ballon d'Or nomination for fourth straight year.