2024 Ballon d’Or Nominees Announced: Who Were the Biggest Snubs?
Football fans around the world eagerly awaited the announcement of the nominees for the prestigious Ballon d’Or awards, which took place on September 4. With 60 players in contention for the coveted Golden Ball across the men’s and women’s categories, there was no shortage of talent vying for the top honors.
Men’s Category:
Among the favorites to claim the men’s prize are Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr and Manchester City’s Rodri. Both players had outstanding seasons, showcasing their skill and talent on the field. Vinicius Jr’s performances for Real Madrid were particularly noteworthy, while Rodri’s impact in the midfield for Manchester City did not go unnoticed.
Another player who could make a case for the top prize is Jude Bellingham, who impressed with his performances for Madrid and the England national team. Bellingham’s versatility and consistency on the pitch have earned him a spot on the shortlist alongside other football stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland.
Women’s Category:
In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmati is the favorite to defend her crown after a stellar season with Barcelona. Bonmati played a crucial role in guiding Barcelona to a quadruple triumph and also helped Spain win the Nations League. She faces tough competition from her Barcelona teammates Caroline Graham Hansen and Alexia Putellas, as well as from the United States’ Olympic gold medallists, including Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and Mallory Swanson.
Notable Snubs:
Despite the impressive lineup of nominees for the Ballon d’Or awards, there were several players who deserved recognition for their outstanding performances over the past year. These players, often referred to as the ‘snubs,’ may not have made the shortlist, but their contributions to their teams have not gone unnoticed.
One such player who many believe was unjustly excluded from the list is Karim Benzema. The Real Madrid striker had a phenomenal season, proving to be a key player for his team with his goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the field. Benzema’s absence from the list has sparked debate among football fans and experts alike.
Another notable snub is Fran Kirby, the Chelsea and England forward who had an exceptional season, playing a crucial role in her team’s success. Kirby’s skill, speed, and goal-scoring ability set her apart from her peers, making her absence from the Ballon d’Or shortlist a surprise to many.
As the football world eagerly awaits the announcement of the winners of the Ballon d’Or awards, the debate over the notable snubs will continue to rage on. While only a select few can claim the top honors, it is important to recognize and celebrate all the talented players who have made a significant impact on the sport.
Stay tuned for more updates on the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards and the latest in the world of football.
2024 Ballon d’Or Nominees: A Closer Look at the Contenders
As the anticipation builds for the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards, football fans are analyzing the nominees in both the men’s and women’s categories to determine who may have been overlooked and who stands a strong chance of claiming the prestigious Golden Ball.
Men’s Category Contenders:
While Vinicius Jr and Rodri are indeed strong contenders for the men’s Ballon d’Or, other players have also made a compelling case for themselves. Kylian Mbappe, the Paris Saint-Germain forward, continues to dazzle with his speed and scoring ability, making him a perennial favorite for the award. Harry Kane, the Tottenham Hotspur striker, consistently delivers exceptional performances, showcasing his skill as one of the top goalscorers in the Premier League.
Erling Haaland, the Borussia Dortmund sensation, has captured the attention of football fans worldwide with his goal-scoring prowess and physical dominance on the field. His remarkable performances have made him a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or, as he continues to impress with his consistency and talent.
Women’s Category Contenders:
While Aitana Bonmati is a frontrunner in the women’s category, other players are also making waves and staking their claim for the Golden Ball. Caroline Graham Hansen, Bonmati’s Barcelona teammate, is a dynamic winger known for her speed and creativity on the pitch. Her ability to create scoring opportunities and influence matches could see her emerge as a serious contender for the award.
Alexia Putellas, another Barcelona standout, has been instrumental in her team’s success with her midfield prowess and leadership. Her vision, passing accuracy, and goal-scoring ability make her a strong candidate for the Ballon d’Or, as she continues to shine in both domestic and international competitions.
Revisiting the Notable Snubs:
While Karim Benzema and Fran Kirby were undeniably overlooked for the Ballon d’Or nominations, it is essential to acknowledge other players who may have been deserving of recognition. Players like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Neymar Jr. have consistently performed at the highest level and have a track record of success that could have warranted their inclusion in the shortlist.
Additionally, rising stars such as Pedri, the Barcelona midfielder, and Jude Bellingham, the Borussia Dortmund sensation, have shown immense potential and could have been compelling additions to the list of nominees. Their impact on their respective teams and their ability to influence matches at a young age highlight their talent and bright future in football.
As the countdown to the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards continues, the debate over the nominees and potential winners will intensify, with fans eagerly awaiting the announcement of the final results. The world of football is full of talent and excitement, and the Ballon d’Or awards serve as a celebration of the best players in the sport.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights on the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards as the football world gears up for this prestigious event.
