Internet reacts to Ronaldo and Messi’s absence from 2024 Ballon d'Or list: 'End of an Era'

In a shocking turn of events, football icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi were not included in the 2024 Ballon d'Or shortlist, marking a significant moment in football history. 

Fans around the world expressed their emotions online, with many calling it the end of an era for two of the sport's greatest players, who have shared 13 Ballon d'Or titles between them.

One fan tweeted, "Greatest rivalry of all times is over," while another echoed the sentiment with, "End of an era. Messi and Ronaldo." 

The news of their omission sparked more reactions, with another fan writing, "GOATS will be remembered forever," and another dramatically stating, "The end is not near. The end is already here. Both players are just playing for fun now."

Ronaldo, at 39, was coming off a spectacular 44-goal season for Al-Nassr, including a record 35 goals in the Saudi Pro League, but despite his individual accomplishments, he did not secure any major silverware. 

Meanwhile, Messi, 37, faced an injury-plagued season but still led Inter Miami to their first-ever title at the 2023 Leagues Cup and helped Argentina win the 2024 Copa America, though his contributions were somewhat limited.

Ronaldo and Messi have been synonymous with the Ballon d'Or for nearly two decades, with Ronaldo winning five titles, his last in 2017, and Messi securing a record eight, including his most recent in 2023. 

Their rivalry defined an era of football greatness, and their absence from this year’s shortlist signals a possible closing chapter to one of the sport's most iconic duopolies.