Ballon d'Or 2022

We've moved on from the Messi and Ronaldo duopoly but Real Madrid and Barcelona continue to dominate in the individual awards.

[Just ask the Mexicans](https://en.as.com/soccer/how-many-mexican-players-have-been-nominated-for-the-ballon-dor-complete-list-n/). This year there were a number of changes to the process, most notably, the jury of journalists was instructed to take into account players’ performances in the 2021/22 season, rather than the 2022 calendar year. Well, the truth is that we don’t yet know. Fans will always have their own favourites and will find ways to doubt the integrity or intelligence of those voting a different way, especially if choosing a rival player. ](https://en.as.com/soccer/ballon-dor-2022-live-online-today-awards-nominees-winners-and-latest-updates-from-the-ceremony-n/)The sight of sweaty athletes showing their prowess on a muddy field was swapped for a red carpet filled with those same individuals wearing expensive suits, glamorous dresses and big smiles. And the supporting cast of families, friends, club officials and sporting executives took their own places as we gathered for the crowning of the best players in the world.

Former Arsenal midfielder, Mesut Ozil has insisted that Real Madrid striker, Karim Benzema deserved the 2022 Ballon d'Or so much. Ozil, a former teammate.

Ozil posted a picture of himself and Benzema wearing Real Madrid’s jersey with the caption: “My boy Benzi – the best player in the world. I’ve always said you will win this trophy and you deserve it so much. The former Germany international also said that he always knew Benzema would win the Ballon d’Or in his glittering career.