The Ballon d'Or 2018 ceremony, held on December 3rd, 2018, in Paris, marked a seismic shift in the world of football. For ten years, the coveted award had been a duopoly, a back-and-forth affair between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. In 2018, however, the reign of the two titans ended, as Luka Modrić, the Real Madrid and Croatian midfield maestro, claimed the prestigious prize. This victory not only cemented Modrić's place among footballing legends but also signaled a potential changing of the guard in the global game. This article will delve deep into the Ballon d'Or 2018, exploring the rankings, the nominees, the controversies surrounding the "who deserved it" debate, and the lasting impact of Modrić's historic win.
Ballon d'Or 2018 Rankings: A Close Contest
The 2018 Ballon d'Or wasn't a landslide victory. While Modrić ultimately prevailed, the competition was fiercely contested, highlighting the exceptional talent on display across the footballing landscape. The final rankings reflected a tight battle at the top, showcasing the quality of players vying for the ultimate individual accolade. While the exact point totals weren't publicly released, the top three were clearly defined:
1. Luka Modrić: Modrić's victory was richly deserved, based on his outstanding performances throughout the year. His pivotal role in Real Madrid's Champions League triumph and Croatia's unexpected run to the World Cup final cemented his claim to the award. His ability to control the midfield, dictate the tempo of the game, and contribute creatively made him a truly indispensable player.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo: Despite finishing second, Ronaldo's consistent goal-scoring prowess remained a force to be reckoned with. His Champions League success with Real Madrid, before his move to Juventus, kept him firmly in contention. However, Portugal's relatively early exit from the World Cup likely hampered his chances.
3. Antoine Griezmann: Griezmann's impressive performances for Atlético Madrid and his crucial contributions to France's World Cup victory placed him third. His versatility, goal-scoring ability, and overall impact on the pitch made him a strong contender.
The remaining positions saw a collection of footballing stars, each with compelling arguments for inclusion in the top ten. This further emphasized the high level of competition and the difficulty in selecting a definitive winner. The inclusion of players like Kylian Mbappé, Mohamed Salah, and Raphael Varane, all relatively young, further pointed towards a changing landscape in the world of football.
Ballon d'Or 2018 List: A Who's Who of Footballing Excellence
The Ballon d'Or 2018 list wasn't just about the top three. The entire list represented a constellation of exceptional talent, reflecting the global nature of the modern game. The nominees included players from various leagues and nationalities, showcasing the breadth and depth of talent across the world. While a complete, detailed list is often unavailable publicly in its entirety, the top contenders consistently mentioned were:
* Luka Modrić (Winner)
* Cristiano Ronaldo
* Antoine Griezmann
* Kylian Mbappé
* Mohamed Salah
* Raphael Varane
* Lionel Messi
* Kevin De Bruyne
* Harry Kane
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