The Ballon d'Or, a prestigious individual award in football, recognizes the best male and female players in the world. The 2022 ceremony celebrated the achievements of footballers during the 2021-2022 season. This article dives into the top 10 players who received the most votes for the coveted award.

The 2022 Ballon d'Or Ceremony

The 2022 Ballon d'Or ceremony took place on October 17, 2022, in Paris, France. The Théâtre du Châtelet hosted the event, gathering football's elite to celebrate individual brilliance and team accomplishments. The ceremony not only awarded the Ballon d'Or for both men and women but also recognized other achievements, such as the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper and the Kopa Trophy for the best young player. The event was a star-studded affair, with legends, current stars, and influential figures from the footballing world in attendance. The anticipation was high as fans and players alike eagerly awaited the announcement of the winners, making it a night to remember for the sport.

Changes to the Selection Process

Several changes were implemented in the selection process for the 2022 Ballon d'Or. France Football, the organizers of the award, aimed to make the selection more objective and transparent. One significant change was the revision of the voting rules. The jury now consists of representatives from the top 100 FIFA-ranked countries for the men's award and the top 50 for the women's award, ensuring a more focused and representative voting panel. Additionally, the period of consideration shifted from a calendar year to a season-based assessment (August to July), aligning with the typical football season. This change allowed for a more accurate evaluation of player performances based on their contributions to club and country during the defined timeframe. Furthermore, clearer criteria were established, emphasizing individual performance, team success, fair play, and overall impact on the game. These changes aimed to enhance the credibility and fairness of the Ballon d'Or, solidifying its status as the most prestigious individual award in football.

Top 10 Players of 2022 Ballon d'Or

1. Karim Benzema

Karim Benzema emphatically claimed the 2022 Ballon d'Or, solidifying his status as one of the world's premier strikers. His exceptional performances for Real Madrid during the 2021-2022 season were nothing short of phenomenal. Benzema was the driving force behind Real Madrid's triumphant Champions League campaign, scoring crucial goals in the knockout stages against formidable opponents like Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester City. His hat-tricks and match-winning performances showcased his clinical finishing, tactical intelligence, and leadership qualities. In La Liga, Benzema's goal-scoring prowess led Real Madrid to the title, further cementing his place as the league's top scorer. Beyond goals, his contributions included assists, link-up play, and an overall commanding presence on the pitch. Benzema's consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations set him apart, making him the undisputed choice for the Ballon d'Or. His remarkable season underscored his evolution into a complete forward, capable of dictating the outcome of any match. The Ballon d'Or win was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence, marking a crowning achievement in his illustrious career. Benzema's victory resonated with fans and players alike, celebrating a player who consistently defied expectations and elevated his game to unparalleled heights.

2. Sadio Mané

Sadio Mané secured the second spot in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, a testament to his outstanding contributions to both Liverpool and the Senegalese national team. During the 2021-2022 season, Mané was instrumental in Liverpool's quest for a historic quadruple, playing a pivotal role in their FA Cup and League Cup victories. His electrifying pace, skillful dribbling, and clinical finishing made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. In the Premier League, Mané's consistent performances helped Liverpool maintain a strong title challenge, showcasing his versatility and adaptability across different attacking positions. Internationally, Mané led Senegal to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title, scoring the decisive penalty in the final and earning the Player of the Tournament award. His leadership and determination inspired his team, uniting the nation in celebration. Mané's impact extended beyond goals and assists; his relentless work rate, tactical awareness, and team-oriented approach made him an invaluable asset. Whether pressing high, tracking back, or creating scoring opportunities, Mané consistently delivered impactful performances. His move to Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022 further highlighted his global appeal and the recognition of his exceptional talent. Mané's second-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings reflected his remarkable achievements and solidified his status as one of the world's most dynamic and influential footballers.

3. Kevin De Bruyne

Kevin De Bruyne clinched the third position in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, reaffirming his status as one of the most gifted midfielders in the world. De Bruyne's performances for Manchester City during the 2021-2022 season were characterized by his exceptional vision, pinpoint passing, and remarkable ability to create scoring opportunities. He was the orchestrator of Manchester City's attack, dictating the tempo and delivering defense-splitting passes with unparalleled precision. In the Premier League, De Bruyne's contributions were crucial in securing another league title for Manchester City. His goals, assists, and overall influence in midfield were pivotal to their success. Beyond statistics, De Bruyne's impact was evident in his ability to control games, unlock stubborn defenses, and elevate the performance of his teammates. His technical skills, tactical intelligence, and unwavering work ethic set him apart, making him a nightmare for opponents. De Bruyne's consistency and ability to perform at the highest level, week after week, showcased his dedication and commitment to excellence. Whether playing through balls, delivering crosses, or scoring from distance, De Bruyne consistently produced moments of brilliance. His third-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings was a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional talent and his significant contributions to Manchester City's success. De Bruyne's artistry on the field continues to inspire and captivate fans, solidifying his legacy as one of the game's greatest midfielders.

4. Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski secured fourth place in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, acknowledging his prolific goal-scoring record and sustained excellence. During the 2021-2022 season, Lewandowski continued to break records and defy expectations, both for Bayern Munich and the Polish national team. His goal-scoring exploits in the Bundesliga were nothing short of extraordinary, as he consistently found the back of the net with clinical precision and unwavering determination. Lewandowski's ability to score goals from various angles and situations, whether with his feet or his head, made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. In the Champions League, he continued to showcase his scoring prowess, leading Bayern Munich's attack with remarkable efficiency. Beyond goals, Lewandowski's contributions included his hold-up play, link-up play, and leadership on the field. His physical strength, tactical intelligence, and relentless work ethic set him apart, making him one of the most complete strikers in the world. Lewandowski's move to Barcelona in the summer of 2022 marked a new chapter in his illustrious career, further highlighting his global appeal and the recognition of his exceptional talent. His fourth-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings was a testament to his remarkable achievements and his enduring impact on the game. Lewandowski's dedication to his craft and his unwavering pursuit of excellence continue to inspire fans and players alike.

5. Mohamed Salah

Mohamed Salah claimed fifth place in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, recognizing his outstanding performances and significant contributions to Liverpool. Throughout the 2021-2022 season, Salah showcased his exceptional dribbling skills, electrifying pace, and clinical finishing ability, solidifying his status as one of the world's top forwards. In the Premier League, Salah's goal-scoring exploits were instrumental in Liverpool's title challenge, earning him numerous accolades and admiration from fans and pundits alike. His ability to cut inside from the right wing, unleash powerful shots, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. In the Champions League, Salah continued to shine, playing a key role in Liverpool's journey to the final. Beyond goals, Salah's contributions included his relentless work rate, tactical awareness, and ability to link up with his fellow attackers. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he consistently inspired his teammates and elevated Liverpool's overall performance. Salah's dedication to his craft, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and his humility off the field have made him a role model for aspiring footballers around the world. His fifth-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings was a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional talent and his significant contributions to Liverpool's success. Salah's electrifying performances continue to captivate audiences and cement his legacy as one of the game's modern greats.

6. Kylian Mbappé

Kylian Mbappé secured the sixth spot in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, acknowledging his exceptional talent and significant impact on Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the French national team. During the 2021-2022 season, Mbappé showcased his electrifying pace, mesmerizing dribbling skills, and clinical finishing ability, solidifying his status as one of the world's most exciting and dynamic forwards. In Ligue 1, Mbappé's goal-scoring exploits were instrumental in PSG's title triumph, earning him numerous accolades and recognition as one of the league's top performers. His ability to glide past defenders, unleash powerful shots, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. In the Champions League, Mbappé continued to shine, playing a key role in PSG's campaign. Beyond goals, Mbappé's contributions included his tactical intelligence, his ability to link up with his fellow attackers, and his relentless work rate. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he consistently inspired his teammates and elevated PSG's overall performance. Mbappé's decision to stay at PSG, despite interest from other top clubs, underscored his commitment to the team and his desire to achieve further success in Paris. His sixth-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings was a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional talent and his significant contributions to both PSG and the French national team. Mbappé's electrifying performances continue to captivate audiences and cement his legacy as one of the game's future legends.

7. Thibaut Courtois

Thibaut Courtois earned the seventh position in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, a testament to his exceptional goalkeeping skills and pivotal role in Real Madrid's success. Throughout the 2021-2022 season, Courtois showcased his remarkable shot-stopping abilities, commanding presence in the penalty area, and exceptional reflexes, solidifying his status as one of the world's top goalkeepers. In La Liga, Courtois's consistent performances were instrumental in Real Madrid's title triumph, earning him numerous accolades and recognition as one of the league's best goalkeepers. His ability to make crucial saves, organize his defense, and command his area instilled confidence in his teammates and frustrated opposing attackers. In the Champions League, Courtois was simply outstanding, delivering a series of match-winning performances that were crucial to Real Madrid's journey to the final. His saves in the final against Liverpool were particularly memorable, as he single-handedly kept his team in the game and secured their victory. Beyond shot-stopping, Courtois's contributions included his distribution skills, his ability to read the game, and his leadership qualities. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he consistently inspired his teammates and elevated Real Madrid's overall performance. Courtois's seventh-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings was a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional talent and his significant contributions to Real Madrid's success. His performances throughout the season cemented his legacy as one of the game's greatest goalkeepers.

8. Vinícius Júnior

Vinícius Júnior secured the eighth spot in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, acknowledging his breakout season and significant contributions to Real Madrid. During the 2021-2022 season, Vinícius Júnior emerged as a key player for Real Madrid, showcasing his electrifying pace, mesmerizing dribbling skills, and improved finishing ability. His partnership with Karim Benzema flourished, as they formed a dynamic attacking duo that tormented opposing defenses. In La Liga, Vinícius Júnior's performances were instrumental in Real Madrid's title triumph, earning him numerous accolades and recognition as one of the league's most exciting young players. His ability to take on defenders, create scoring opportunities, and score crucial goals made him a constant threat. In the Champions League, Vinícius Júnior played a pivotal role in Real Madrid's journey to the final, scoring the winning goal in the final against Liverpool. Beyond goals, Vinícius Júnior's contributions included his relentless work rate, his tactical awareness, and his ability to link up with his fellow attackers. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he consistently inspired his teammates and elevated Real Madrid's overall performance. Vinícius Júnior's eighth-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings was a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional talent and his significant contributions to Real Madrid's success. His breakout season has solidified his status as one of the game's brightest young stars.

9. Luka Modrić

Luka Modrić claimed the ninth position in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, a testament to his enduring class, exceptional playmaking abilities, and continued importance to Real Madrid. Throughout the 2021-2022 season, Modrić showcased his remarkable vision, precise passing, and tireless work ethic, solidifying his status as one of the world's top midfielders. In La Liga, Modrić's consistent performances were instrumental in Real Madrid's title triumph, earning him widespread praise and recognition as one of the league's best midfielders. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game, create scoring opportunities, and control the midfield made him an invaluable asset to his team. In the Champions League, Modrić played a pivotal role in Real Madrid's journey to the final, orchestrating their attacks and providing crucial assists. His performance in the second leg against Paris Saint-Germain was particularly memorable, as he turned the game on its head with a moment of brilliance. Beyond his technical skills, Modrić's contributions included his leadership qualities, his tactical awareness, and his unwavering commitment to his team. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he consistently inspired his teammates and elevated Real Madrid's overall performance. Modrić's ninth-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings was a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional talent, his enduring influence, and his significant contributions to Real Madrid's success. His continued excellence at the highest level of the game is a testament to his dedication, professionalism, and unwavering passion for football.

10. Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland rounded out the top 10 in the 2022 Ballon d'Or rankings, recognizing his phenomenal goal-scoring record and significant impact despite joining Manchester City in the summer of 2022. During the first half of the 2021-2022 season, Haaland continued to showcase his exceptional finishing ability, blistering pace, and physical strength while playing for Borussia Dortmund. His goal-scoring exploits in the Bundesliga and the Champions League made him one of the most sought-after players in the world. Haaland's ability to score goals from various angles and situations, whether with his feet or his head, made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His move to Manchester City in the summer of 2022 marked a new chapter in his career, and he quickly adapted to the Premier League, continuing to find the back of the net with remarkable consistency. Beyond goals, Haaland's contributions include his hold-up play, his ability to create space for his teammates, and his relentless work ethic. His impact extends beyond statistics, as he consistently inspires his teammates and elevates Manchester City's overall performance. Haaland's tenth-place finish in the Ballon d'Or rankings was a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional talent and his significant impact on the game. His performances continue to captivate audiences and solidify his status as one of the game's future superstars.