Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Ronaldo, Gerd Muller

The 10 Footballers with the Most Individual Awards in History – Ranked

July 28, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

When it comes to greatness in football, team trophies don’t always tell the full story. Individual accolades highlight a player's consistency, brilliance, and impact across seasons and tournaments. Here are the top 10 players with the most individual trophies in football history — ranked from 10 to 1.

10. Johan Cruyff – 10 Awards

Johan Cruyff is considered one of the most visionary players the game has ever seen. A three-time Ballon d'Or winner in the early 1970s, he set the standard for modern attacking football. Known for his elegance, intelligence, and influence at Ajax and Barcelona, Cruyff’s legacy goes far beyond his 10 trophies.

9. Alfredo Di Stefano – 12 Awards

Alfredo Di Stéfano — By Wim van Rossem for Anefo - http://proxy.handle.net/10648/a9979e04-d0b4-102d-bcf8-003048976d84, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=126091039

Alfredo Di Stefano played a key role in establishing Real Madrid as a global force in football. Winner of two Ballon d'Ors and the only recipient of the prestigious Super Ballon d'Or, he was also named Spanish Player of the Year four times. His versatility and dominance across leagues make him a true icon.

8. Michel Platini – 12 Awards

Michel Platini was a midfield maestro known for his incredible goal-scoring ability. He won three consecutive Ballon d'Ors from 1983 to 1985 and was the top scorer and best player at Euro 1984. With his flair and leadership, Platini shaped France’s rise on the international stage.

7. Zinedine Zidane – 13 Awards

Zinedine Zidane was the complete playmaker, combining grace with clutch performances. He won the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year in 1998, leading France to World Cup glory. With standout showings at Euro 2000 and the 2006 World Cup, Zidane’s trophy haul reflects his big-game brilliance.

6. Eusebio – 17 Awards

Eusebio remains one of Portugal’s most legendary figures in football. Known for his power and precision, he won the Ballon d'Or in 1965 and was top scorer in the Portuguese league seven times. His impact at the 1966 World Cup and dominance in the European Cup underline his elite status.

5. Gerd Müller – 18 Awards

Gerd Müller was one of the most prolific goal scorers of all time. The German striker was Bundesliga’s top scorer seven times and also led the scoring charts in the European Cup on four occasions. His 1970 Ballon d'Or win and World Cup Golden Boot further cement his legacy as a goal machine.

4. Ronaldo Nazário – 18 Awards

Ronaldo de Nazario — Warehouse of Images / Shutterstock.com

Ronaldo, famously known as "O Fenômeno", was a once-in-a-generation talent. He won two Ballon d'Ors and three FIFA World Player of the Year awards, along with several top scorer titles across leagues and international tournaments. His performance in the 2002 World Cup final remains legendary.

3. Marco van Basten – 20 Awards

Despite an early retirement due to injury, Marco van Basten built an extraordinary CV with 20 individual awards. He won three Ballon d'Ors and dominated both Eredivisie and Serie A as a lethal striker. His performances at Euro 1988 and European competitions remain a benchmark for attacking excellence.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo – 33 Awards

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the most consistent and decorated players in history. With five Ballon d'Ors, four European Golden Shoes, and player of the season awards in England, Spain, and Italy, his dominance is unmatched. Ronaldo has proven his greatness in every league he’s played in.

1. Lionel Messi – 53 Awards

At the top of the list is Lionel Messi with a staggering 53 individual trophies. From eight Ballon d'Ors to six European Golden Shoes and countless player of the year honors, Messi’s resume is unparalleled. His artistry, longevity, and unmatched consistency make him the greatest of all time.