Alexia Putellas secured her third women's Ballon d'Or after a successful 2025/26 season with Barcelona, where she helped win multiple trophies, including the UEFA Women's Champions League. The article then extensively details Cristiano Ronaldo's maiden Ballon d'Or win in 2008. That season, he scored 42 goals across all competitions, including 31 in the Premier League, leading Manchester United to both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson. United defeated Chelsea on penalties in the Champions League final. Ronaldo later moved to Real Madrid in 2009, winning four more Ballon d'Or awards. He currently plays for Saudi club Al Nassr, where he won the Saudi Pro League title last season. Lionel Messi's Ballon d'Or triumphs, including his 2012 and 2023 awards, are also highlighted, showcasing the rivalry between the two footballing greats.