Since its establishment in 2016, the FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year award has been eagerly anticipated as one of the most prestigious individual honors in football. Let’s take a look at the winners from each year and celebrate their exceptional contributions to the sport.

2016: Cristiano Ronaldo
In the inaugural year of the FIFA Best Player Award, Cristiano Ronaldo claimed the title. The Portuguese superstar had a remarkable season, winning both the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid and the 2016 UEFA Euro with the Portuguese national team.

2017: Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo’s dominance continued as he secured the award for the second consecutive year. His outstanding performances throughout the year, including helping Real Madrid secure another Champions League triumph, solidified his status as one of the game’s greatest players.

2018: Luka Modrić
Breaking the Ronaldo-Messi duopoly, Luka Modrić became the first player other than Ronaldo or Lionel Messi to win the FIFA Best Award since its inception. The Croatian midfielder was instrumental in Real Madrid’s Champions League victory and played a crucial role in guiding Croatia to the FIFA World Cup final.

2019: Lionel Messi
Returning to the winner’s circle, Lionel Messi claimed his sixth FIFA Best Player award. The Argentine maestro showcased his exceptional skills and creativity throughout the year, leading Barcelona to another La Liga title and finishing as the league’s top scorer.

2020: Robert Lewandowski
In a year heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Robert Lewandowski displayed extraordinary consistency and goal-scoring prowess. The Polish striker was instrumental in Bayern Munich’s treble-winning campaign, which included triumphs in the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and the UEFA Champions League.

2021: Lionel Messi
Continuing his remarkable success, Lionel Messi secured his record-extending seventh FIFA Best Player award. After a transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain, Messi once again showcased his unrivaled skills, leading the French club to domestic success and winning the Copa America with the Argentine national team.

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These exceptional players have left an indelible mark on the footballing world, captivating fans with their extraordinary talents and achievements. As the FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year award continues to evolve, we eagerly anticipate the future winners who will join the illustrious list of footballing greats.