Follow Us on Google
By Sandra Simon
This year’s Ballon d’Or was hosted on the 22nd of September 2025, with France’s Ousmane Dembele taking home the coveted trophy.
The most prestigious individual award in football recognises the best players in the world based on their performances over a season. The winners are chosen by a panel of journalists from top footballing nations.
Over the years that the Ballon d’Or has been hosted, some exceptional football players have never won the award despite their incredible achievements and contributions to the beautiful game.
Below are some of them:
Ryan Giggs
He is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, and his career is a testament to his exceptional talent as well as his dedication.
He spent his entire 23 years as a professional footballer with Manchester United and is known for his explosive pace and mesmerising dribbling skills.
While many acknowledge his prowess on the field, Giggs never won a Ballon d’Or award.
Gianlugi Buffon
The legendary Italian is widely regarded as the greatest goalkeeper of all time.
Other News
A World Cup winner in 2006, Buffon is known for his excellent shot-stopping abilities and leadership skills, but was never recognised for the Ballon d’Or.
Didier Drogba
The iconic Ivorian striker who played for Chelsea will always be remembered for the crucial goals he scored and for how he was a constant threat to the opposition.
With four Premier League titles, two Champions League finals appearances and many more, Drogba is regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers.
However, his exceptional skills never earned him the Ballon d’Or award.
Paolo Maldini
Paolo Maldini played for AC Milan and Italy with an extraordinary career, winning five European Cups and seven Serie A titles.
He is highly respected as one of the greatest defenders in football history.
Franck Ribery
The dynamic Bayern Munich player was popular for his skill and creativity.
With several Bundesliga titles, UEFA Cup and many more, Ribery was a standout player in various performances in Europe but the Ballon d’Or evaded him.
