Mith Panchal
Since its creation in 1956, the Ballon d’Or has been the ultimate individual honor in football.
Legends like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and many others have graced this trophy, showcasing their brilliance on the world stage.
While we often associate this prestigious award with seasoned veterans, some of the game’s brightest stars managed to claim it at a very young age.
Let’s dive into the stories of the seven youngest players ever to win the Ballon d’Or and see how they made football history at such a young age.
If you are wondering why 7? Well its simple “Thala for a Reason.”
Ranking the 7 Youngest Ballon d’Or Winners
7. Eusebio (1965) – 23 Years, 11 Months
Eusebio, the first Portuguese player to win the Ballon d’Or, claimed the prestigious award in 1965. Known as the “Black Panther,” the striker was a dominant force for Benfica and his national team.
In that year, he had an outstanding season, helping Benfica retain the Portuguese league title with his 28 goals.
In the European Champion Clubs’ Cup, Eusebio was on fire, scoring nine goals in nine games. Though Benfica fell to Inter Milan in the final, Eusebio’s individual brilliance stood out.
At just under 24 years old, Eusebio was already a football legend and an icon for Portuguese football.
6. Cristiano Ronaldo (2008) – 23 Years, 9 Months
Cristiano Ronaldo needs no introduction. In 2008, at the age of 23, he claimed his first Ballon d’Or after a jaw-dropping season with Manchester United.
Scoring 42 goals in 48 matches, Ronaldo led his team to both Premier League and Champions League glory.
Known for his speed, power, and unparalleled goal-scoring ability, CR7 dominated that year. He also won the European Golden Shoe and the Golden Boot for the 2007/08 season.
It was a moment that marked the beginning of Ronaldo’s incredible journey to becoming one of the greatest players of all time.
5. Oleg Blokhin (1975) – 23 Years, 1 Month
In 1975, Oleg Blokhin became the second Soviet player to win the Ballon d’Or, following in the footsteps of Lev Yashin.
At just 23 years old, Blokhin had an exceptional season with Dynamo Kyiv, where he finished as the top scorer in the Soviet championship.
Blokhin’s performance in the European Cup Winners’ Cup was equally impressive, leading his club to victory. Later that year, he guided Dynamo Kyiv to a historic win over Bayern Munich in the European Supercup.
This all-around brilliance earned him the Ballon d’Or, beating out football legends like Franz Beckenbauer and Johan Cruyff.
4. George Best (1968) – 22 Years, 7 Months
George Best, one of football’s first true pop stars, became a Ballon d’Or winner in 1968 at the age of 22. Playing for Manchester United, Best’s electrifying performances captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
Known for his incredible dribbling skills, flair, and creativity, Best was a footballer ahead of his time.
That year, he led Manchester United to victory in the European Cup, making him the third player from the club to win the Ballon d’Or after Sir Bobby Charlton and Denis Law.
His charisma and talent on the pitch earned him the nickname “The Fifth Beatle” and secured his place as a footballing icon.
3. Lionel Messi (2009) – 22 Years, 5 Months
At the age of 22, Lionel Messi claimed his first Ballon d’Or in 2009 with a staggering 98.5% of the votes. It was the start of a legacy that would see Messi go on to win eight Ballon d’Or titles (and counting).
That year, Messi’s Barcelona achieved an unprecedented sextuple, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Champions League, and more.
Messi was the star of that historic season, mesmerizing defenders with his dribbling, creativity, and goalscoring.
The Argentine magician was already showing glimpses of what would become one of the most legendary careers in football history.
Some even called him the greatest of all time at the age of 22—quite a statement!
2. Michael Owen (2001) – 22 Years and 4 Days
Michael Owen was a wonderkid, and in 2001, he became the second-youngest player to win the Ballon d’Or at just 22 years and 4 days old.
Playing for Liverpool, Owen played a pivotal role in their incredible 2000/01 season, helping the club win the FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Cup, Super Cup, and Community Shield.
In 46 appearances that season, Owen scored 24 goals and assisted seven more. His electric pace, deadly finishing, and knack for scoring crucial goals made him one of England’s brightest stars.
Although injuries would later derail his career, Owen’s 2001 Ballon d’Or win remains a high point in his footballing journey.
1. Ronaldo Nazario (1997) – 21 Years, 3 Months
The youngest-ever Ballon d’Or winner is none other than Ronaldo Nazario, also known as “O Fenomeno.” At the age of just 21, Ronaldo claimed the award in 1997 after an unforgettable year.
He had just moved from Barcelona to Inter Milan, where he continued his devastating form in front of goal.
Ronaldo had won the Copa America with Brazil, the Copa del Rey, and was the top scorer in La Liga before making his move to Italy. His blistering speed, power, and technical ability made him a nightmare for defenders.
Ronaldo would later go on to win a second Ballon d’Or in 2002 after his stunning performances in the World Cup, solidifying his status as one of the greatest strikers of all time.
Conclusion: The Future of the Ballon d’Or
The Ballon d’Or has seen many young talents rise to the occasion and leave their mark on football history.
With stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi now in the twilight of their careers, the world eagerly awaits the next generation of footballing legends.
Who knows? Maybe players like Jude Bellingham or Jamal Musiala could join this prestigious list in the near future.
Or perhaps a certain Lamine Yamal will surpass them all and become the youngest Ballon d’Or winner of all time. Football is full of surprises, and the future is as exciting as ever!
