Every football fan knows the prestige of the Ballon d’Or. It’s the most coveted individual award in the game, recognizing the best player in the world each year.
But have you ever wondered how age plays into this? Some players reach their peak later in their careers, defying time to claim the award when most are considering hanging up their boots.
Here, we look at the top 10 oldest Ballon d’Or winners in history. From legends of the past to modern-day greats, this list proves that age is just a number when it comes to greatness.
Oldest Ballon d’Or Winners
10. Pavel Nedved – 31 (2003)
Pavel Nedved, the long-haired maestro of Juventus, claimed the Ballon d’Or in 2003 at 31. You might remember him dancing down the wing in his prime, especially during the early 2000s.
That year, he helped Juventus to a Champions League final and two Serie A titles. But fans of Thierry Henry might argue he was unlucky to miss out on the award that year.
Regardless, Nedved’s performance was undeniable, making him one of the most iconic players of his generation.
9. Josef Masopust – 31 (1962)
Not a name that immediately springs to mind, but Josef Masopust was a legend in his own right. This Czech midfielder-turned-forward won the award in 1962 after leading Czechoslovakia to the World Cup final against Brazil.
He even scored the opening goal in the final! Though they eventually lost 3-1, his brilliance on the field was impossible to ignore. Masopust’s legacy still stands tall in Czech football history.
8. Cristiano Ronaldo – 32 (2017)
Cristiano Ronaldo needs no introduction. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was 32 when he won his last Ballon d’Or in 2017.
His career at Real Madrid during that time was nothing short of legendary.
With 450 goals in 438 games for Madrid, multiple Champions League titles, and dominating La Liga, Ronaldo was a true force of nature.
At 32, he was still at the top of his game, showing us all that his winning mentality has no age limit.
7. Fabio Cannavaro – 33 (2006)
Fabio Cannavaro’s Ballon d’Or win in 2006 was a rare feat for defenders. It’s even more impressive because he won it at the age of 33!
That year, Cannavaro captained Italy to World Cup glory, lifting the trophy in Germany. His defensive solidity and leadership on the pitch were crucial to Italy’s success.
Cannavaro remains the last defender to win the award, and his achievement stands as a reminder that even those at the back can take home football’s biggest individual prize.
6. Luka Modric – 33 (2018)
Luka Modric broke the Messi-Ronaldo monopoly when he won the Ballon d’Or in 2018 at 33. He played a crucial role in helping Croatia reach the World Cup final, where they fell to France.
His incredible performances also saw him steer Real Madrid to their third consecutive Champions League title.
Modric’s vision, technique, and leadership in midfield set him apart as one of the best in the game, proving that midfielders can dominate just as much as forwards.
5. Alfredo Di Stefano – 33 (1959)
Alfredo Di Stefano is a name that resonates with Real Madrid fans worldwide. He was one of the pioneers of the European Cup (now the Champions League) and was instrumental in Madrid’s five consecutive European Cup wins between 1956 and 1960.
In 1959, at the age of 33, Di Stefano claimed his second Ballon d’Or.
His free-scoring ability and leadership on the pitch were key to Madrid’s dominance in both Spain and Europe, making him an immortal figure in football history.
He would then go on to win the only Super Balon d’Or for his achievements.
4. Lev Yashin – 34 (1963)
Lev Yashin is a footballing anomaly. Why? He’s the only goalkeeper ever to win the Ballon d’Or.
Yashin, known for his reflexes, command of the box, and penalty-saving heroics, was a towering figure in Soviet football.
He claimed the Ballon d’Or in 1963 at the age of 34. It’s incredibly rare for goalkeepers to get this kind of recognition, which makes Yashin’s win even more special.
To this day, he remains the only goalie to have lifted the prestigious award.
3. Karim Benzema – 34 (2022)
Karim Benzema’s Ballon d’Or win in 2022 at 34 was the culmination of years of consistent performances. After the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid, Benzema stepped up as the main man.
His 2021/22 season saw him score 30 goals and lead Real Madrid to both La Liga and Champions League glory.
His leadership and goal-scoring made him a deserving winner, edging out strong competition from the likes of Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.
2. Lionel Messi – 36 (2023)
At 36, Lionel Messi added an eighth Ballon d’Or to his collection in 2023. After moving to Inter Miami, many thought his days of dominating European football were over.
But Messi’s magic at the 2022 World Cup, where he led Argentina to glory, cemented his legacy.
Winning the Ballon d’Or at this stage of his career proves that Messi is not just one of the best, but possibly the greatest to ever play the game.
His achievements speak for themselves, and he continues to inspire young players across the globe.
1. Stanley Matthews – 41 (1956)
The oldest player to ever win the Ballon d’Or? That title belongs to Stanley Matthews, who won it at the astonishing age of 41 in 1956.
The English winger was known for his incredible fitness and skill, even as he neared his 50s. Nicknamed “The Wizard of the Dribble,” Matthews’ longevity in the game is nothing short of remarkable.
His win stands as a testament to his legendary status, and no one has come close to winning the award at such an advanced age since.
Conclusion
These players remind us that age doesn’t define greatness.
Whether you’re 31 like Pavel Nedved or 41 like Stanley Matthews, talent, dedication, and hard work can see you claim the highest honors in football.
With names like Messi and Ronaldo still making history, who knows what future Ballon d’Or winners will achieve as they continue to defy the odds?
Which of these players do you think will be remembered the most in football history?
