Football’s most prestigious individual award has been handed out since 1956, but some absolute legends have never managed to get their hands on it. Despite brilliant careers filled with trophies and memorable moments, these 10 superstars were unlucky enough to play during eras dominated by other exceptional talents. Pulse Ghana highlights 10 world class footballers who never got to win the golden ball in their illustrious careers. 1. Paolo Maldini The AC Milan legend spent his entire career at one club, winning everything there was to win. Defenders rarely get recognition for the Ballon d’Or, but Maldini’s class and leadership made him special. He came third in 1994 after reaching the World Cup final with Italy, proving he belonged among the world’s best. 2. Thierry Henry The Arsenal great was absolutely electric during his peak years. The Frenchman didn’t win in 2003 when Pavel Nedvěd pipped him to the prize, despite Henry being the most feared striker on the planet. His pace, skill, and finishing ability made him a nightmare for every defence in Europe. 3. Xavi Hernández Did Xavi deserve to win the Ballon d’Or? 3rd in 2009, 2010 and 2011, the former Spanish midfielder would at least ask for the “Ballon de Bronze”! In total, he has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or on 7 occasions.#ballondor pic.twitter.com/dZeudyxS87— Ballon d’Or (@ballondor) May 29, 2025 Barcelona’s midfield wizard was the brains behind Spain and Barca’s golden era. His passing range and game intelligence were simply unmatched. The little maestro finished third three times but was gracious enough to accept that Messi and Ronaldo deserved their victories during those years. READ ALSO: Ballon d’Or power rankings: Top 10 contenders after Chelsea’s Club World Cup win over PSG 4. Andrés Iniesta Xavi’s partner in crime was equally brilliant with the ball at his feet. The 2010 World Cup final goal-scorer had his best chance that year, delivering Spain’s first-ever World Cup triumph. His ability to glide past players and create magic from nothing made him truly special. 5. Robert Lewandowski Robert Lewandowski wins the Gerd Müller Award! The best striker of the year! 🎯Congrats @lewy_official! #trophéeGerdMuller #ballondor pic.twitter.com/H3FolGSQaH— Ballon d’Or (@ballondor) October 17, 2022 The Polish goal machine got properly stitched up when COVID-19 cancelled the 2020 ceremony. That was his best-ever season, scoring for fun and winning six trophies with Bayern Munich. He came second the following year but never got the recognition his incredible consistency deserved. READ ALSO: Youngest Ballon d’Or winners in history and what it means for Lamine Yamal 6. Gianluigi Buffon Italy’s legendary goalkeeper was a proper leader between the sticks. He finished second in 2006 after captaining Italy to World Cup glory, and many reckon he should’ve beaten teammate Fabio Cannavaro to the prize. Goalkeepers rarely win individual awards, but Buffon came closer than most. 7. Sergio Ramos Real Madrid’s former captain was their heartbeat during the most successful period in recent history. Three consecutive Champions League titles proved his worth, though defenders struggle to compete with flashy attackers for these awards. 8. Neymar Brazil’s superstar looked destined for greatness but injuries derailed his career at crucial moments. 9. Luis Suárez Uruguay’s tenacious striker was absolutely lethal during his Liverpool and Barcelona days but never won the Ballon d’Or. MUST READ: How the Ballon d’Or winner is decided: Does it favour Dembele or Lamine Yamal? 10. Raúl González Real Madrid’s legendary number seven came really close in 2001, finishing second behind Michael Owen despite a brilliant season.