Lionel Messi Leads Ballon d'Or Favorites After World Cup

Lionel Messi, playing for Inter Miami, tops the latest Ballon d'Or shortlist compiled by the Spanish newspaper Diario AS. The ranking lists Messi first, followed by Manchester City midfielder Rodri, Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane, Paris Saint‑Germain winger Ousmane Dembélé and Bayern's Michael Olise.

Messi’s candidacy comes despite Argentina’s loss in the World Cup final, where he scored goals and helped his team reach the tournament’s climax. Winning the award would give him a ninth Ballon d'Or, extending his record as the most decorated player in the prize’s history.