Since France Football created the Ballon d’Or in 1956, the award has become the most prestigious individual honor in world football. Initially restricted to European players, it wasn’t until 1995 that athletes of any nationality were allowed to compete—provided they played for European clubs. That change marked the beginning of Brazil’s journey in the award’s history, although it also explains why Pelé, arguably the greatest of all time, was never eligible to win it.
After a promising start with Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho Gaúcho, and Kaká—who together claimed five Ballon d’Or trophies—Brazil has now endured nearly two decades without a single winner.
But what explains this drought? To begin answering that question, it’s worth revisiting how this legendary quartet, who played together in two World Cups (2002 and 2006) and dazzled in European football, managed to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
- Ronaldo Nazário – 1997 and 2002
“The Phenomenon” remains the only Brazilian to win the Ballon d’Or twice. In 1997, while playing for Internazionale Milan, Ronaldo mesmerized the world with his explosive pace, dazzling dribbles, and clinical finishing. That year, he scored 59 goals in 70 matches, combining appearances for Barcelona, Inter, and the Brazilian national team.
In 2002, after overcoming career-threatening injuries, Ronaldo staged one of the greatest comebacks in football history. He led Brazil to its fifth World Cup title, scoring 8 goals, including two in the final against Germany. His redemption arc earned him a second Ballon d’Or.
- Rivaldo – 1999
The attacking midfielder began his European career at Deportivo La Coruña, but it was at Barcelona where he truly flourished. In the 1998/99 season, Rivaldo scored 24 goals in La Liga, won the Spanish title, and led Brazil to victory in the Copa América, where he was both top scorer and best player. His tactical intelligence, versatility, and flair earned him global acclaim.
- Ronaldinho Gaúcho – 2005
The “Wizard” captivated the world with his joyful style and unmatched creativity. With Barcelona, Ronaldinho won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, and also lifted the Confederations Cup with Brazil. He finished the season as the top scorer in the Champions League, netting 10 goals despite playing primarily as a midfielder. His dribbling and charisma became symbols of his genius.
- Kaká – 2007
Kaká was the driving force behind AC Milan’s Champions League triumph, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals. In the 2006/07 season, he played 48 matches, scored 19 goals, and provided 9 assists. His elegance, vision, and ability to shine in decisive moments made him the world’s best player. Since then, no Brazilian has claimed the award.
Ballon d’Or vs FIFA The Best: Two Crowns, One Throne
To understand Brazil’s Ballon d’Or drought, it’s important to distinguish between the Ballon d’Or, organized by France Football, and FIFA The Best, created by FIFA.
FIFA launched its own award in 1991—the FIFA World Player of the Year—which coexisted with the Ballon d’Or until 2009. Between 2010 and 2015, the two merged into the FIFA Ballon d’Or, but split again in 2016.
Ballon d’Or is voted on by specialized journalists, and FIFA The Best includes votes from coaches, national team captains, journalists, and fans.
>> Ballon d’Or: Yearly Portion of Heated Debate and (un)justified Controversy
Both awards consider individual performance, titles won, and technical impact. However, the Ballon d’Or retains greater historical prestige and is often referred to as football’s “Oscar.”
The Messi–Cristiano Ronaldo Duopoly
One major reason for Brazil’s 18-year almost cinematographic drought is the absolute dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who together won 13 of the 15 editions following Kaká’s win in 2007:
- Messi: 8 titles (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023)
- Cristiano Ronaldo: 5 titles (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)
Their sustained brilliance at elite clubs, combined with staggering goal and assist numbers, overshadowed Brazilian stars like Neymar and Philippe Coutinho, who—despite flashes of brilliance—couldn’t match their consistency or global impact. Neymar reached the Ballon d’Or podium in 2015 and 2017, but never won.
Vinícius, Raphinha, Estêvão… Can the New Generation Break Through?
But what is the possibility of Brazil shining again in the Ballon D’or? Last year, Vinicius Junior was behind Rodri, from Manchester City, which generated some controversies. In the current edition, in 2025, Barcelona’s Raphinha finished fifth in the Ballon d’Or, but his Sofascore numbers were higher than those of the top four. He was named best player of the season in both La Liga and the Champions League.
- La Liga: 7.80
- Champions League: 8.24
Raphinha scored 34 goals and provided 25 assists in 57 matches, winning La Liga and the Copa del Rey. Yet, he didn’t take home the trophy—highlighting the subjectivity in France Football’s voting process.
>> Ballon d’Or vs. Sofascore Rating. Who Should Have Won It?
Another rising star is Estêvão Willian, formerly of Palmeiras and now at Chelsea. At just 18 years old, he was nominated for the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best U-21 player in the world. Estêvão impressed at the Club World Cup and has begun to show his talent in the Premier League. His Sofascore average rating stands at 7.2, and his technical maturity suggests he could be a future contender.
A Reflection of Football in Transition
Brazil’s Ballon d’Or drought reflects more than just Messi and Ronaldo’s dominance. It also signals a shift in global football dynamics. Brazilian players are increasingly spread across various leagues, and fewer have become central figures at Europe’s top clubs.
Raphinha is a case in point—only at age 28 did he establish himself at a major European club, after years in smaller leagues. The path to global recognition is longer and more competitive than ever.
It is possible that Brazil will have a Ballon d’Or again? Yes. But it takes consistency, protagonism in major competitions and presence in elite clubs. Meanwhile, the nation that had Pelé, called the King and considered the best player of all time, continues to dream. After all, if there is a country that knows how to produce stars, it is Brazil.