Lamine Yamal still has many years ahead of him to chase the incredible career numbers of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. But the Barcelona wonderkid has already surpassed both legends in one very specific area: Ballon d’Or nominations.
Yamal’s place on the 2026 Ballon d’Or shortlist marks his third consecutive nomination, making history before he has even turned 20.
Three Ballon d’Or Nominations Before 20
Yamal has become the first player ever to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or three times before his 20th birthday.
His first nomination came in 2024, when he was just 17 years old, making him the youngest player ever shortlisted for the prestigious award. He finished eighth that year before going one step further in 2025, claiming second place behind Ousmane Dembélé.
Even Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo did not reach three nominations this quickly. Messi was 19 when he was first nominated in 2006, but had already turned 20 by the time he was shortlisted again in 2007. Ronaldo also received his first nomination at 19 in 2004, before entering his twenties the following year.
Yamal, meanwhile, has already reached three nominations while still a teenager.
More Than Just an Age Record
This latest nomination is not simply a reward for Yamal’s remarkable early rise. He played a key role in Barcelona’s latest La Liga triumph before helping Spain lift the World Cup. Already a two-time Kopa Trophy winner, he has firmly established himself among the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or.
Yamal has openly acknowledged his chances of winning this year, while choosing not to launch a personal campaign for the award.
His challenge is no longer just about breaking age-related records. After finishing second in 2025, Yamal now has the opportunity to make even bigger history: becoming the youngest Ballon d’Or winner ever.
