Ballon d’Or 2001: Full List of Nominations, Winner, and Top Contenders

The 2001 Ballon d’Or remains one of the most talked-about in football history. Awarded annually to the world’s best player, the Ballon d’Or has celebrated legends across decades, and 2001 was no exception. That year saw extraordinary performances in both domestic leagues and international competitions, with players dazzling fans with skill, goals, and unforgettable moments on the pitch.

In this blog, we’ll break down the winner, the top contenders, and highlight the top five players of 2001. We’ll also provide a handy table of the top 15 nominees, complete with club and country details.

Ballon d’Or 2001 Winner - Michael Owen

The winner of the 2001 Ballon d’Or was none other than Michael Owen. The young English striker earned the prestigious award after a sensational season with Liverpool, where he scored crucial goals in both the Premier League and UEFA Cup competitions. His pace, finishing, and instinct in front of goal made him a standout performer, and he became only the fifth Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or.

Top Contenders of 2001

While Owen took the top prize, the competition was fierce. The list of contenders included football giants like Raúl, Luis Figo, Olivier Kahn, and Luis Enrique. Each of these players made a huge impact in their respective clubs and on the international stage, and their performances defined the 2001 footballing year.

Player Spotlight: Top 5 Ballon d’Or Nominees 2001

1. Michael Owen (England – Liverpool)

Michael Owen’s explosive speed and incredible goal-scoring ability were the hallmarks of his 2001 season. He scored 24 goals in the Premier League and led Liverpool to UEFA Cup success, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards.

2. Raúl González (Spain – Real Madrid)

Raúl was an ever-present figure for Real Madrid, dazzling with his poise and technical skill. The Spanish forward continued to score consistently in La Liga and the Champions League, earning global recognition for his consistency and leadership.

3. Luís Figo (Portugal – Real Madrid)

The Portuguese playmaker brought flair and creativity to every game. Figo’s vision, passing range, and ability to turn matches made him one of the standout performers of the year, particularly in Europe’s top competitions.

4. Oliver Kahn (Germany – Bayern Munich)

The German goalkeeper had an outstanding year, keeping Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga and in European competitions. Kahn’s shot-stopping, commanding presence, and reliability made him one of the few goalkeepers to ever contend for the Ballon d’Or.

5. Luis Enrique (Spain – Barcelona)

Luis Enrique’s versatility and work rate for Barcelona made him a key figure in La Liga. Equally capable in midfield or attack, Enrique’s influence on games and knack for scoring decisive goals put him in the top five nominees.

Ballon d’Or 2001 Top 15 Nominees

The 2001 Ballon d’Or remains a memorable year in football history, showcasing young talents like Michael Owen alongside seasoned stars such as Raúl and Figo. It was a year that celebrated pure footballing skill, determination, and the magic that makes the sport so captivating.

For fans of Premier League stars, La Liga legends, and European giants, the 2001 Ballon d’Or nominations offer a fascinating glimpse into football at the turn of the century.