5 Oldest Ballon d'Or Winners in History, Including Football Icon Lionel Messi
- Since its inception in 1956, countless players have taken the stage to have their names engraved on the Ballon d'Or
- Last year, Lionel Messi added an eighth to his collection, further cementing his legacy as one of football's greatest
- After the Argentine won the award at age 36, we take a look at the five oldest winners of the coveted Ballon d'Or
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When Lionel Messi claimed a record-extending Ballon d'Or award last October, many were convinced it would be his last.
Sure enough, with the Argentine and his rival Cristiano Ronaldo missing from this year's nominees, that is now the case.
Source: UGC
When Messi was announced the winner at the gala in Paris, he became the second-oldest player to win the award, overtaking Karim Benzema, who now ranks as the third-oldest recipient.
Legit.ng has compiled a list of the five oldest Ballon d'Or winners, showing that age is no barrier to success.
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5 oldest Ballon d'Or winners
5. Lev Yashin (1963): 34 years, 1 month, and 26 days
It’s exceedingly rare for a goalkeeper to win football’s most prestigious individual award.
While defenders often struggle for recognition, it's even harder for those guarding the net. As of now, Lev Yashin remains the only goalkeeper to have ever claimed the Ballon d’Or.
Renowned for his lightning-fast reflexes, bravery, and dominance in the penalty area, the Russian legend is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history.
Yashin was famous for his commanding presence and the composure he brought to his team's defence.
4. Lionel Messi (2021): 34 years, 5 months, and 5 days
In 2021, Messi claimed his seventh Ballon d'Or after leading Argentina to their first Copa América title since 1993.
During the 2020-2021 season, he scored 43 goals in 61 matches for Barcelona, PSG, and Argentina, solidifying his position as one of the greatest players ever.
At that time, he was the fourth-oldest footballer to claim the prize until he eclipsed his own ranking two years later.
3. Karim Benzema (2022): 34 years, 9 months, and 29 days
Karim Benzema’s path to securing his first - and likely only - Ballon d'Or in 2022 began with a series of outstanding goal-scoring displays for Real Madrid during the 2021/22 season.
His contributions were key to the club's success in both La Liga and the Champions League, as he netted 30 goals across all competitions.
Beyond his scoring prowess, Benzema's leadership, especially after Ronaldo's departure, propelled Real Madrid to new heights.
At 34 years old, the 97-cap French striker outperformed top talents like Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah to claim the prestigious award.
2. Lionel Messi (2023): 36 years, 4 months, and 6 days
Winning the Ballon d'Or has become second nature for Messi since he and Ronaldo dominated European football.
His eight titles highlight his superiority and even at 36, now playing for Inter Miami, he remains a pivotal figure in football.
His latest Ballon d'Or victory cements his legacy, with Inter Miami joining the exclusive ranks of clubs boasting a winner of the prestigious award.
1. Stanley Matthews (1956): 41 years, 10 months, and 17 days
Sir Stanley Matthews holds the record as the oldest Ballon d'Or winner, claiming the prestigious award at an impressive 41 years and 10 months.
Nicknamed The Wizard of the Dribble, the legendary Englishman showcased his extraordinary football talent, earning him a well-deserved spot on this list.
Per Oldest, while many players had long retired by that age, Matthews was still at the pinnacle of the sport, an incredible feat.
Best known for his time with Stoke City and Blackpool, he won the Ballon d'Or during its first-ever ceremony in 1956 and remains the oldest recipient of the coveted trophy to this day.
Vinicius Junior backed for 2024 Ballon d'Or
Legit.ng also recently reported that Karim Benzema has voiced his support for Vinicius Junior to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or.
This follows the Real Madrid star's outstanding performances last season, which have positioned him as a strong contender.
Benzema believes that Vini could be the rightful heir to the throne and could surpass Lionel Messi as the world's best footballer.
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