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This year’s Ballon d’Or shortlist includes three players currently affiliated with U.S. clubs, marking a notable presence for American-based talent in the prestigious award’s running. The final results will be unveiled at Monday’s gala ceremony.
Historically, it is rare for North American players to claim the Ballon d’Or, an accolade traditionally dominated by European and South American stars. In fact, American players have seldom been recognized in this global contest for the best soccer players.
The sole American to have won the Ballon d’Or Féminin is Megan Rapinoe, who earned the award in 2019. That same year, her teammate on the United States Women’s National Team, Alex Morgan, secured a third-place finish. Both were integral members of the World Cup-winning squad coached by Jill Ellis, which swept the tournament and drew international acclaim.
American Influence in Women’s Soccer Awards
Since the inception of the women’s Ballon d’Or in 2018, there has consistently been at least one American player shortlisted each year. The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has contributed several candidates, reflecting the strength of the women’s domestic league. Beyond the Ballon d’Or, three Americans have claimed the FIFA World Player of the Year award: Mia Hamm, Abby Wambach, and Carli Lloyd, underscoring the nation’s historical impact on women’s soccer globally.
In contrast, the men’s Ballon d’Or has seen fewer contenders from Major League Soccer (MLS) or U.S.-born players. While Lionel Messi secured his record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023 during his debut season with Inter Miami, his award recognized his outstanding World Cup performance and not his MLS play, as he is Argentinean.
Several factors contribute to the limited representation of North American leagues and players in the Ballon d’Or men’s category. European leagues maintain a higher competitive standard, and the scheduling differences make it challenging for European audiences and voters to closely follow MLS matches, resulting in less visibility and recognition for U.S. soccer.
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