10 things that happened since the last time Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal were not in the top 4

#2 Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi won 8 Ballon d’Ors between them

Messi has won 5 of those while Cristiano Ronaldo has 3 to his credit

Just like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in tennis, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are the undisputed superstars of football. In fact, Cristiano won the Ballon d’Or during his time at Manchester United in 2008. But ever since, no player other than these 2 have won the prestigious award.

Messi has won 5 of those while Cristiano Ronaldo has 3 to his credit. Their monopoly over the award, or the sport, hasn’t ended yet even though Federer and Nadal are on the wane.

It is perhaps fitting that Cristiano and Messi have battled for the spot as the sport’s top dog just like Federer and Nadal have done so in tennis. Cristiano and Messi are still going strong and are certain to win more trophies. Let’s hope there is one last hurrah for Federer and Nadal as well.