Ballon d’Or 2023: Messi and Bonmati Lead the Charge as Nominees Announced for Football’s Ultimate Prize

The stage is set for the world’s most prestigious individual football accolade, the Ballon d’Or. Following a stellar year featuring triumphant campaigns in both men’s and women’s football, the nominees for the 2023 Ballon d’Or have been revealed. Football enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the grand ceremony, scheduled to take place at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris on October 30.

When Will the Ceremony Take Place?

The Ballon d’Or 2023 winners will be announced at a gala event in the heart of Paris on October 30. The ceremony will also honor the recipients of the Yashin and Kopa awards, dedicated to the best goalkeeper and the most outstanding Under-21 player, respectively.

Who’s Leading the Men’s Category?

The Argentine maestro, Lionel Messi, is positioned as the frontrunner for an astonishing eighth Ballon d’Or. At 36, Messi continues to defy the years, leading Argentina to a World Cup victory in Qatar and scoring seven goals in the tournament—two of which were in the final. Alongside him, Manchester City’s Erling Haaland also stands as a strong contender after a sensational debut season that saw him net 52 goals across all competitions and help secure City’s historic Treble.

Who Could Upset the Favorites?

While Messi and Haaland are the bookies’ top picks, players like Vinicius Junior, Kevin De Bruyne, Kylian Mbappe, and Rodri can’t be discounted and are likely to give the favorites a run for their money.

Women’s Ballon d’Or: Who’s in the Spotlight?

In the women’s category, Spain and Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati is the one to watch. With Alexia Putellas sidelined due to injury for much of the year, Bonmati has stepped up, earning the Golden Ball as Spain won their first-ever Women’s World Cup. She’s pitted against tough competitors like Sam Kerr, who had an exceptional year with Chelsea, and Georgia Stanway, who has had a remarkable season with Bayern Munich and played a key role in England’s journey to the World Cup final.

With the nominees announced and the ceremony just weeks away, the anticipation is palpable. Who will take home football’s greatest individual honor this year? Only time will tell.