Global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has finally broken his silence on the surprising exclusion of both himself and Lionel Messi from the 2024 Ballon d’Or nominee list. For the first time in 21 years, neither of these legendary players appears among the contenders for football’s most prestigious award — signaling the close of an era that has defined the sport for two remarkable decades.
In an interview ahead of Portugal’s Nations League clash with Croatia, Ronaldo did not hide his feelings but maintained a confident stance. “Of course it’s strange not to be on the list, just like Messi. But football is always evolving and I respect the decisions. What matters to me is to continue doing what I love, which is playing football and helping my team,” said the Al-Nassr star.
Ronaldo also stressed that the focus is no longer on individual achievements. “I have already won everything I dreamed of in football. Whether or not I am on the list for the Golden Ball doesn’t change my career or who I am. What matters is the legacy we leave on the field and the impact we have had on our fans over the years,” he said with a tone of gratitude.
The absence of Ronaldo and Messi from the list of nominees caused a huge stir on social media, with many fans considering it the end of an era in football. “It’s a new chapter in the sport. Now it’s the turn of the youngsters to shine, and I’m happy to have been part of such a special generation alongside Messi,” added Ronaldo.
Meanwhile, new talents such as Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham are seen as favourites to take home the award this year. However, for many, the iconic rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi will live on in the hearts of fans forever, even if the focus is now on a new generation of stars.
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to lead Portugal into the crucial match against Croatia, while Messi, who is still recovering from an ankle injury, has not been called up for Argentina’s upcoming international fixtures.
