Football’s most decorated stars: the top 10 players with the most individual awards

November 10, 2025 Kris Isaksen

While team trophies often define a footballer’s legacy, personal accolades reveal a player's true greatness. From Ballon d'Or triumphs to top scorer honours, these players have carved out legendary careers based on their own brilliance. Here are the top 10 footballers with the most individual awards in history—starting from number 10 and counting down to the ultimate icon.

#10 Johan Cruyff – 10 individual awards

Johan Cruyff’s football intelligence and grace set him apart in an era filled with stars. The Dutch legend claimed three Ballon d'Ors and left his mark at Ajax and Barcelona both on and off the pitch.

#9 Alfredo Di Stefano – 12 individual awards

Alfredo di Stéfano — Photo: Wiki Commons

Di Stefano remains the only player to receive the Super Ballon d'Or, crowning him the best player of the past three decades in 1989. His honours reflect dominance across Argentina, Colombia, and Spain, including two Ballon d'Ors and four Spanish Player of the Year titles.

#8 Michel Platini – 12 individual awards

Platini redefined what a midfielder could do, scoring freely and leading France to Euro 1984 glory. His three consecutive Ballon d'Or wins underscore his dominance during that peak period with Juventus and the French national team.

#7 Zinedine Zidane – 13 individual awards

Zidane’s artistry came with tangible rewards—highlighted by his 1998 Ballon d'Or and three FIFA World Player of the Year titles. He was a standout in both international tournaments and club competitions, influencing every team he played for.

#6 Eusebio – 17 individual awards

Eusebio's incredible scoring feats in Portugal and on the European stage earned him iconic status. With seven league top scorer awards and a 1965 Ballon d'Or, the Benfica great remains a symbol of attacking brilliance.

#5 Gerd Müller – 18 individual awards

Germany’s most prolific striker, Gerd Müller racked up goal after goal, earning seven Bundesliga Golden Boots and four European Cup top scorer titles. His 1970 Ballon d'Or capped off a career of relentless finishing.

#4 Ronaldo Nazário – 18 individual awards

Ronaldo combined power, pace, and finesse like few before him. With two Ballon d'Ors and three FIFA World Player of the Year wins, his honours span domestic and international stages, including the 2002 World Cup Golden Shoe.

#3 Marco van Basten – 20 individual awards

Despite an early retirement at 31, Van Basten’s individual accolades are staggering. The Dutch striker secured three Ballon d'Ors and multiple top scorer titles across Eredivisie, Serie A, and international competitions.

#2 Cristiano Ronaldo – 33 individual awards

Cristiano Ronaldo Al Nassr — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

A record-breaking scorer in every league he played in, Ronaldo amassed five Ballon d'Ors and countless Player of the Year awards across England, Spain, and Italy. His relentless drive earned him top scorer honours in every major domestic league.

#1 Lionel Messi – 53 individual awards

Topping the list, Messi’s unmatched tally includes eight Ballon d'Ors and a staggering 14 Argentina Player of the Year awards. From Barcelona to Miami, he continues to dazzle, making a compelling case as the greatest footballer of all time.