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The Ballon d’Or celebrates intelligence just as much as goals. By dissecting Keira Walsh’s tactical mastery, we see how the "Director" of the England midfield turns football into a form of art through vision and positioning.

Twenty-five years ago, Michael Owen’s explosive pace shocked the world, earning him the 2001 Ballon d’Or. Relive the magic of a season where a young prodigy proved that lightning can indeed be captured in a trophy.

Alessia Russo’s journey from the North Carolina Tar Heels to the heights of the Ballon d'Or shortlist is a masterclass in development. Discover how the American collegiate system serves as a finishing school for the world’s best talent.

Labelled a world beater before a professional ball was kicked, the Real Madrid conductor has gone on to fulfil every ounce of the hype. But what did it take to make it this far?

In an era when steak and chips was a typical pre-match meal, and smoking wasn’t unheard of, Sir Stanley Matthews was the ultimate professional, dedicated to body maintenance that facilitated high excellence well into his forties, with the 1956 Ballon d'Or.

Before Messi and Ronaldo, there was the "Wizard of the Dribble." Journey back to 1956 to see how a 41-year-old Stanley Matthews set the standard for excellence and sportsmanship as the first-ever Ballon d'Or winner.

The last German to be crowned, back in 1996, the former Dortmund defender—who had a reputation for speaking his mind—shares his Ballon d'Or memories with France Football.

In 2022, at the pinnacle of his career, a place where he strives to elevate the game to an art form, Karim Benzema reflected on his journey to becoming the 45th recipient of the Ballon d'Or. In an intimate conversation, he breaks down what he sees, hears, feels, and experiences on the pitch—and in the wake of this ultimate recognition.

Michael Owen, the 2001 Ballon d'Or winner, has returned to live near where he grew up, in a Welsh manor house he has transformed into a museum dedicated to his meteoric career.

Consistency is the most difficult criterion for a Ballon d'Or juror to ignore. Explore how Declan Rice’s physical and mental preparation has turned him into the world’s most reliable midfielder, setting a new "Gold Standard" for the position.

Twice voted England Men’s Player of the Year, Bukayo Saka carries the hopes of a nation on his young shoulders this summer, as the Three Lions aspire to roar at the World Cup. The multiple Ballon d’Or nominee will be aware of what international success means for his country, while individual garlands tend to follow.

He was the first to know and the last to believe it. And yet, the superb midfielder for Juventus and the Czech Republic became the 48th Ballon d'Or winner. Here is the interview made after his triumph.

Right after he won the 2018 Ballon d'Or, Luka Modric discussed the obstacles he had to overcome to reach the top. And the prediction of his former coach.

Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who claimed his second Yachine Trophy in 2025, spoke in his native language about his history with PSG, his philosophy as a goalkeeper, and his new chapter at Manchester City.

Before reaching glory, the record Ballon d'Or winner had to learn to manage frustration. A look back at Lionel Messi's most vulnerable moment.

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi is still basking in the glory of his World Cup victory, a trophy he considers his Holy Grail and a decisive factor in securing his record eighth Ballon d'Or in 2023.

From star player to national team manager and now a global advocate, 2004 Ballon d'Or winner Andriy Shevchenko is rallying support for his native Ukraine and has revealed his plans to one day bring his prestigious trophy home.

For Portugal, he’s more than just a player - he’s the keeper of a dream. Carrying the legacy of five Ballon d’Ors and an unrelenting pursuit of 1,000 goals, the man who once taught his country how to win is now helping shape the future of a new generation. Discover how Cristiano Ronaldo’s leadership remains the driving force behind both the national team and the nation itself.

More than just natural talent, Cristiano Ronaldo’s longevity is built on unwavering mental discipline. Discover how the mindset of the 5-time Ballon d'Or winner turns daily effort into lasting greatness.

At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo is defying biology with a body that looks a decade younger. Discover how the Portuguese star turned nutrition into a secret weapon to win 5 Ballon d'Ors and to stay at the very top of world football.