MESSIVSRONALDO
Individual Awards
This is the category where Messi's résumé is hardest to argue with — eight Ballon d'Or awards to Ronaldo's five, a gap that's only widened in recent seasons. Ronaldo counters with a stronger peak scoring record, edging Messi on European Golden Shoes during his most prolific years at Real Madrid.
Ballon d'Or
Messi stands standalone with a record eight titles, while Ronaldo sits close behind with five prestigious golden balls.
MESSI
- 2023
- 2021
- 2019
- 2015*
- 2012*
- 2011*
- 2010*
- 2009
RONALDO
- 2017
- 2016
- 2014*
- 2013*
- 2008
* merged with FIFA World Player of the Year
FIFA World Player of the Year
The global footballing body recognizes both athletes heavily, with Messi setting the pace for official world player honors.
MESSI
- 2023 FIFA Best
- 2022 FIFA Best
- 2019 FIFA Best
- 2015 FIFA Ballon d'Or
- 2012 FIFA Ballon d'Or
- 2011 FIFA Ballon d'Or
- 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or
- 2009 FIFA World Player of the Year
RONALDO
- 2017 FIFA Best
- 2016 FIFA Best
- 2014 FIFA Ballon d'Or
- 2013 FIFA Ballon d'Or
- 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year
European Golden Shoe
Messi holds the all-time European record with six golden boots, highlighted by his historic 50-goal campaign in 2012.
MESSI
- 2018/19 36 Goals
- 2017/18 34 Goals
- 2016/17 37 Goals
- 2012/13 46 Goals
- 2011/12 50 Goals
- 2009/10 34 Goals
RONALDO
- 2014/15 48 Goals
- 2013/14 31 Goals
- 2010/11 40 Goals
- 2007/08 31 Goals