Top 5 Ballon d’Or Winners Who Never Won The UEFA Champions League

Throughout history, a select group of footballers has been honoured with the prestigious Ballon d'Or award, a true testament to their remarkable talent and accomplishments in the beautiful game.

While many Ballon d'Or winners have achieved greatness by securing multiple trophies, including the prestigious UEFA Champions League, a handful of exceptional players have faced the unfortunate reality of falling short in their pursuit of European club football's ultimate prize.

Sports Brief is presenting five Ballon d’Or recipients who, despite their remarkable achievements, have never lifted the Champions League trophy.

Ronaldo Nazario

Ronaldo accomplished the extraordinary feat of winning the Ballon d’Or not once, but twice in 1997 and 2002. However, it might astonish many to learn that he stands among the Ballon d’Or winners who never tasted Champions League glory.

While Ronaldo's trophy cabinet boasts an impressive collection of accolades, including double World Cup victories, the elusive Champions League trophy remains absent. Despite showcasing his talents at renowned clubs such as Real Madrid and Inter Milan, the Brazilian legend was unable to add the prestigious European honor to his long list of achievements.

George Oppong Weah - Liberia

The remarkable Oppong Weah stands as the sole African to have clinched the Ballon d’Or award, achieving this milestone in 1995. Endowed with remarkable pace, power, and trickery, the 53-year old emerged as a complete forward who left his mark on various top clubs.

Despite securing a few league titles and cups, the elusive Champions League trophy remained out of his grasp. His primary club, PSG, remains among those prestigious clubs that have yet to claim a major European trophy.

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Roberto Baggio - Italy

In 1993, the former Italian international was crowned the Ballon d'Or champion. A prolific and gifted striker during his prime, the 53-year old was known affectionately as the "divine ponytail." Despite being recognized as the world's finest player, he couldn't seize the Champions League title.

Throughout his illustrious career, he graced the ranks of esteemed Italian clubs like Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan, yet the elusive European trophy remained beyond his grasp, even with his remarkable contributions.

Michael Owen - England

Regarded as one of the English Premier League's most prolific strikers, the former England international left an indelible mark on the footballing world. As the proud recipient of the 2001 Ballon d’Or, he stood tall among Liverpool’s greatest ever forwards, earning admiration and accolades throughout his career.

His impressive journey with the Reds saw him lifting multiple trophies, including the UEFA Cup. However, despite his undeniable talent and dedication, he remained unfortunate in his pursuit of the major European trophy, with neither Liverpool nor Manchester United being able to secure the coveted prize during his time with them.

Pavel Nedved

The illustrious Czech midfielder proudly claimed the Ballon d’Or title in 2003. A true maestro in the midfield, Nedved showcased his exceptional skills while representing Juventus for the majority of his career.

Throughout his time with the Old Lady, he celebrated numerous league titles and cups, yet the elusive Champions League trophy remained beyond his grasp.

The closest he came to lifting the prestigious trophy was in 2003 when Juventus faced a heart-wrenching defeat in the final against their rivals, AC Milan.

Despite his best efforts, the 48-year old couldn't secure the Champions League trophy during his remarkable career, and it remained an unattainable dream until his retirement in 2009.