Cristiano Ronaldo is the player nominated for the Golden Ball title the most times in history with a total of 18 times.

In history, only 26 players have ever won the Golden Ball title and only 10 of these players have owned 2 or more titles. For many players, being nominated for this award is an honor.

Let’s take a look at the top 5 players who have been nominated for the Golden Ball the most times.

5. Franz Beckenbauer (12 times)

Beckenbauer had a memorable career, winning the World Cup as both a player and a coach. Besides, he and Bayern also dominated the Bundesliga for a long time.

Beckhenbauer was nominated for the Golden Ball 12 times and he won twice. When mentioning Beckenbauer, fans remember the image of a solid, brave and exemplary midfielder.

4. Johan Cruyff (12 times)

Cruyff is the nucleus of the once-famous all-out attack style. He made important contributions to world football as both a player and a coach.

Except for the World Cup championship, Cruyff had a fulfilling career with 3 Golden Balls after 12 nominations. In 1989, when France Football magazine awarded the Super Golden Ball title, Cruyff also ranked second.

3. Paolo Maldini (13 times)

Legendary midfielder Maldini spent 24 years playing football for AC Milan and retired as the greatest legend in the club’s history. At his peak, Maldini was a rock in the defense, frustrating opposing strikers.

Unfortunately, Maldini has never won the World Cup or Euro (both finished second). He has also never won the Golden Ball after 13 nominations. His best achievement is owning the Bronze Ball twice in 1994 and 2003.

2. Lionel Messi (16 times)

Messi’s talent is something we do not need to discuss. After 2 decades of playing professional football, the Argentine superstar has won 44 titles, including the World Cup, Copa America and the European Cup.

At the Golden Ball award, Messi has won the Golden Ball 7 times after being nominated 16 times. This year, Messi continues to be the number 1 candidate for this title.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (18 times)

Ronaldo’s streak of 18 consecutive years of being nominated for the Golden Ball title ended when the Portuguese superstar was left out of this year’s list. However, the number 18 is enough for CR7 to lead on this list.

Up to this point, Ronaldo has pocketed 5 Golden Balls. At the age of 38, Ronaldo is still performing at a high level for Al Nassr. It is not excluded that Ronaldo will try to attend the 2026 World Cup to capture the last major title missing in his career.