Ballon d’Or 2013: Ronaldo, Messi and the Stars of a Classic Year

The Ballon d’Or has always been the pinnacle of individual footballing glory, and the 2013 edition was no exception. Football fans around the world watched eagerly as FIFA revealed the nominations for the award, highlighting the absolute best players from the 2012-13 season. This was a year of unforgettable goals, jaw-dropping skills, and historic team triumphs, making the race for football’s top honour a thrilling spectacle.

The top contenders were a mix of the usual suspects and emerging talents, but one name would ultimately shine brighter than the rest. Here’s a closer look at the 2013 Ballon d’Or winner, the leading contenders, and a spotlight on the top five stars who defined the year.

2013 Ballon d’Or Winner: Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo claimed his second Ballon d’Or in 2013, cementing his place as one of the all-time greats. After a sensational season with Real Madrid, Ronaldo scored 69 goals in all competitions, a record-breaking tally that included crucial strikes in La Liga and the Champions League. His extraordinary athleticism, lethal finishing, and ability to perform on the biggest stage earned him the prestigious award ahead of Lionel Messi and Franck Ribéry.

Top Contenders for the 2013 Ballon d’Or

While Ronaldo took the crown, several other players had exceptional seasons and made the shortlist for the world’s most coveted football prize:

• Lionel Messi (Argentina / Barcelona) – Despite battling injuries, Messi remained a consistent scoring threat and provided countless assists for Barcelona in La Liga.

• Franck Ribéry (France / Bayern Munich) – Ribéry’s exceptional form helped Bayern Munich achieve a historic treble, winning the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and UEFA Champions League.

• Andrés Iniesta (Spain / Barcelona) – The midfield maestro continued to control games with his vision, passing, and decisive moments in big matches.

• Arjen Robben (Netherlands / Bayern Munich) – Robben’s blistering pace and crucial goals were key to Bayern’s success in Europe and Germany.

Player Spotlight: Top 5 Nominees of 2013

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

The Portuguese superstar’s relentless goal-scoring ability in 2013 was simply unmatched. From stunning free-kicks to clutch goals in critical fixtures, Ronaldo showed why he is considered a generational talent.

2. Lionel Messi

Messi’s genius on the ball was on full display, reminding the world of his unparalleled dribbling, vision, and instinctive playmaking. Even in a year dominated by Ronaldo, Messi was never far from contention.

3. Franck Ribéry

Ribéry was the engine behind Bayern Munich’s historic treble. His creativity, dribbling, and consistency at the highest level made him a fan favourite and a deserving nominee.

4. Andrés Iniesta

Iniesta’s quiet brilliance often goes underappreciated, but his ability to control games, pick the perfect pass, and deliver in clutch moments kept Barcelona and Spain at the top of their game.

5. Arjen Robben

Robben’s signature cut-ins from the right flank and lethal finishing were crucial in Bayern’s campaign. His performances in the Champions League were instrumental in their treble-winning season.

Top 15 Ballon d’Or 2013 Nominees

The 2013 Ballon d’Or shortlist showed the balance between individual brilliance and team success. Cristiano Ronaldo deservedly walked away with the golden ball, but the year was filled with incredible performances across Europe. From Messi’s artistry to Ribéry and Robben’s thrilling Bayern campaign, 2013 remains a year to remember for football fans everywhere.