At a Glance:
- African players have steadily raised their global football profile through skill, leadership, and historic achievements in top European leagues.
- Recent nominees reflect Africa’s growing impact on elite football, with key roles in Champions League and domestic title wins.
- The continent’s legacy includes a unique Ballon d’Or winner and several close contenders shaping modern football narratives.
Ballon d’Or remains the most prestigious individual accolade in global football, celebrating the sport’s brightest talents.
African players have increasingly made their mark in this elite arena, showcasing their skill, resilience, and impact on the world stage.
As football continues to globalize, Africa’s stars are shining brighter than ever, earning well-deserved recognition among the sport’s best.
Here’s a detailed look at the top 7 greatest African stars nominated for the Ballon d’Or, capturing their journey, influence, and legacy.
George Weah (Liberia) – 1995 Winner and Trailblazer
George Weah remains the continent’s only Ballon d’Or winner, clinching the award in 1995.
Rising from Monrovia’s streets, Weah’s electrifying speed, precision dribbling, and goal-scoring ability propelled him to AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain stardom.
Beyond trophies, Weah’s legacy paved the way for African talent to gain global football recognition.
Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast) – 2006 Nominee
Drogba’s 2006 nomination followed a stellar season with 20 Premier League goals and crucial Champions League strikes.
Known for his leadership at Chelsea, Drogba’s Champions League-winning penalty in 2012 remains iconic.
His influence has inspired a generation of African players aiming for global success.
Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon) – 2009 Contender
Eto’o nearly cracked the top three in 2009 after an explosive Barcelona season tallying 30 La Liga goals and 36 across all competitions.
His career, decorated with multiple UEFA Champions League titles, highlighted Africa’s growing footprint in elite European football.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt) – Five-Time Nominee Since 2018
Since joining Liverpool, Salah’s relentless scoring and playmaking earned him five consecutive Ballon d’Or nominations.
With multiple Premier League Golden Boots, a Champions League title, and leading Egypt to AFCON finals, Salah is Africa’s modern football icon.
Sadio Mane (Senegal – 2022)
Sadio Mane had the closest finish in the Ballon d’Or ranking since George Weah after a second-place finish in 2022.
The Liverpool winger had managed 23 goals in 51 appearances but he was instrumental in almost helping the club to Champions League success.
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria) – 2023 Nominee
Osimhen’s 2023 Ballon d’Or nomination followed his pivotal role in Napoli’s first Serie A title in over three decades.
On loan at Galatasaray, his 25 goals and five assists helped clinch the Turkish league crown, spotlighting him as Africa’s rising star in Europe.
Ademola Lookman (Nigeria – 2024)
Lookman’s standout season with Atalanta, capped by a Europa League-winning hat-trick, earned him a 2024 nod.
His AFCON final appearance with Nigeria further affirmed his growing reputation.
