Lionel Messi ranks among the major names contending for the title of the greatest Ballon d'Or winner in history. Harry Kane secured the prestigious trophy at the London Palladium on Monday night. This marks the initial victory for the Bayern Munich and England forward, who arrived at the celebrity-filled gathering wearing a Rolex timepiece valued near £1MILLION. However, individuals who have gathered the remarkable trophy multiple times are now competing to be named the BOAT, representing the All-Time Ballon d'Or.
Messi, aged 39, finished in fifth place after failing to surpass Kane for the main prize. The Argentine icon can still achieve a historic milestone by securing the newly established recognition. An eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient, Messi received a nomination alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. Additional nominees include Marco van Basten, Ronaldo, Michel Platini, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, Kevin Keegan, Franz Beckenbauer, Johan Cruyff, and Alfredo Di Stefano. Organizers previously determined that the winner revelation would be postponed until October 28 instead of taking place during the grand gala at the London Palladium. Yet, figures such as Messi and Ronaldo will not expand their personal trophy collections even if they secure the top spot.
A statement from Ballon d'Or officials stated: "We know how much the public cares about the Ballon d'Or and how keen they are to be part of its history." The statement continued: "The BOAT was born out of this desire to build an international community centered around football's most prestigious individual award. Some of you have wondered whether this vote would lead to the creation of a new trophy. The answer is no. We have never announced the creation of an additional trophy. From the outset, the BOAT has been a public vote. It is not about creating a new official award, but about enabling fans to share their choice and make their voices heard." Football supporters have until October 27 to cast their ballots after voting officially began at the beginning of the month.
