"It's not to say that Lionel Messi didn't deserve it but the numbers don't deceive" - When Cristiano Ronaldo questioned credibility of Ballon d'Or

Earlier this year, Cristiano Ronaldo made sensational claims that the Ballon d'Or and The Best awards, which were won by Lionel Messi last year, are 'losing credibility'. The Portuguese's statements from January 2024 have resurfaced after the 30-player shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d'Or was announced.

The 5-time Ballon d'Or winner had missed out to the Argentinian in both awards, leading him to question the process of selecting the winners.

Speaking to Record back in January this year, Ronaldo said that while he wasn't doubting Lionel Messi or the other players, his numbers for the entire season proved his credentials.

"It’s not to say that Messi didn’t deserve it, or Haaland or even Mbappe. But the numbers are there and the numbers don’t deceive. You have to consider the entire season," claimed the Al-Nassr star.

He admitted that his second spell at Manchester United didn't go as expected, but stated that he recovered at Al-Nassr and deserved to be considered for the prizes.

"The numbers are facts. If you go back and see what happened at Manchester United and the national team, people actually considered me lost. But, the truth is that I focused and had a great period at Al-Nassr, that's why I scored 54 goals," he added.

These quotes shows the confidence Cristiano Ronaldo has in himself. He had earlier slammed critics of the Saudi Pro League, claiming that his current league is better than France's Ligue 1.

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Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi not in 2024 Ballon d'Or shortlist

For the first time in over two decades, neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi have been nominated for the Ballon d'Or. The shortlist for the 2024 award was announced yesterday, September 8.

The duo, who have won a combined 13 Ballon d'Or awards, were omitted for the first time since 2003. The two greats of the sport are plying their trade outside Europe currently, with Messi playing for MLS side Inter Miami and Ronaldo with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored 50 goals in Saudi Arabia last season, while Lionel Messi was instrumental in the Herons winning the Leagues Cup. The Argentinian also helped his country win the 2024 Copa America, but neither he nor Ronaldo featured in the shortlist.

Other active players to have won the award, Karim Benzema and Luka Modric, were omitted as well. This means that the recipient of the award on Monday, October 28, will be a first-time winner.