New Delhi, Oct. 27 -- Lionel Messi was one of the Top 5 contenders in the 2026 Ballon d'Or. The ceremony took place at the London Palladium on 26 October. Harry Kane won the award. Remember, 19 years ago, Messi first made the top five in 2007. In a sport that wears down bodies early, this is rare.

Messi first reached the Top 5 in 2007. He was just 20. Playing for Barcelona, he finished third with 255 points, behind Kaka. Cristiano Ronaldo was the first runner-up.

This year, Ronaldo was no way close to the Top 10 contenders. Marca's Top 100 Players (2025-26 season) ranked CR7 33rd. EA Sports FC 27 rated Ronaldo at 84, with 96 players ranked higher than the Portuguese footballer.

But, 19 years later, Leo remains among football's leading ...