Lionel Messi already holds a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, and his performances at the 2026 World Cup have unexpectedly reopened the conversation about a possible ninth, one that would be unprecedented for a player at 38 years old.
A Resurgent Tournament
Messi’s continued influence throughout this World Cup, including his assist for Alexis Mac Allister in the quarterfinal win over Switzerland even in a match where he didn’t score, has reminded voters and pundits of his enduring quality. His goal in the dramatic Round of 16 comeback against Egypt further underlined that his scoring instincts remain sharp under the highest pressure.
The Weight of World Cup Success
Ballon d’Or voting has historically favored players who perform well at major international tournaments during voting years, and Messi’s 2022 World Cup title was widely credited with helping secure his eighth award. A second World Cup title in Argentina’s title defense would carry similar, if not greater, weight given his age and the difficulty of the achievement.
Competing Against a Younger Field
Messi faces stiff competition from players like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, both of whom have delivered standout performances of their own this tournament. Dembélé, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, has continued his strong form for France, though his team’s run ended in the semifinal against Spain.
What Comes Next
Argentina’s semifinal against England, and a potential final against Spain, represent Messi’s last remaining opportunities to add to his World Cup legacy. Given how heavily this achievement would factor into 2026 Ballon d’Or considerations, the coming matches may prove just as significant for his individual awards case as for Argentina’s team success.
