The tallest and shortest Ballon d’Or stars in history

The Ballon d’Or is the highest individual accolade in world football. Although the award is associated in the minds of fans with exceptional skills and short players such as Lionel Messi, its history proves the diversity of physical characteristics among its legends.

“Balloon d’Or” Giants (List of Heights)

– Ruud Gullit (1.91 metres): He leads the winners’ heights (1987) thanks to his massive build to dominate the field.
– Rodri (1.90 metres): He won the award (2024) thanks to setting the rhythm of the midfield.
Lev Yashin (1.89 metres): The only goalkeeper to win the title (1963) thanks to his extraordinary reflexes.
Marco van Basten (1.88 metres): He combined height and agility to win the award 3 times.
– Cristiano Ronaldo and Rivaldo (1.87 metres): They were distinguished by their high heights and decisiveness in matches.

Shortest Prize Legends (list of short statures)

– Omar Sivori (1.63 metres): The shortest person to win the award in history (1961) thanks to his charming quirks.
– Alan Simonsen (1.65 metres): He relied on his superior speed to penetrate opponents’ defenses (1977).
– Raymond Kopa (1.68 metres): French and Real Madrid legend, winner of the award in 1958.

– Lionel Messi (1.70 metres): The most awarded with 8 Golden Balls, taking advantage of his motor stability.
– Luka Modric (1.72 metres): He won the award (2018) relying on his tactical intelligence.