Football enthusiasts of the 2023 Ballon d’Or nominations may have noticed a significant absence

Renowned Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo was notably absent from the prestigious list, marking the first time in two decades that he hasn’t been included. Despite featuring some of today’s most celebrated players, including his long-time rival Lionel Messi, Ronaldo did not secure a spot in this year’s selection.

While Messi, who has won the award seven times, remains the frontrunner, the competition includes Al-Nassr, who has claimed the prize on five occasions. Messi’s recent move to Inter Miami has garnered substantial attention from the public and the media.

The 2023 Ballon d’Or nominees were unveiled by France Football magazine on Wednesday evening, with a total of 60 players vying for the coveted award. Thirty players each have been nominated for the men’s and women’s categories. Some notable male nominees include Erling Haaland, Mohamed Salah, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé.