Lewandowski’s Ballon d’Or Heartache: Still Haunted by 2020 and Messi’s 2021 Win

Ballon d’Or disappointment continues to cast a shadow over Robert Lewandowski’s glittering career. The Polish striker, renowned for his goal-scoring prowess at Bayern Munich and now Barcelona, has openly revealed how the events surrounding the 2020 and 2021 Ballon d’Or awards still trouble him to this day.

Ballon d’Or Disappointment: Lewandowski’s Lingering Regret

The Ballon d’Or is one of the most prestigious individual accolades in football, symbolizing recognition at the highest level. For Robert Lewandowski, 2020 was meant to be his crowning moment. After an extraordinary season with Bayern Munich—scoring over 50 goals and guiding his team to a historic treble—Lewandowski was the clear favorite for the Ballon d’Or. However, the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the award that year, robbing him of what many believed was a deserved triumph.

Lewandowski recently admitted, “I don’t know why, but the disappointment from 2020 still hurts. I felt I was at the peak of my career, and it was the perfect moment for such a recognition. To have it taken away by circumstances beyond my control was difficult to accept.”

Defeat to Messi and Further Frustration in 2021

If 2020 was marked by frustration, 2021 brought its own heartbreak. Despite another prolific season, Lewandowski finished second to Lionel Messi in the Ballon d’Or voting. While Messi’s Copa America triumph with Argentina was widely celebrated, many experts and fans believed Lewandowski’s consistency and impact should have tipped the scales in his favor.

Reflecting on the 2021 disappointment, Lewandowski commented, “Losing out to Messi was tough, especially after coming so close the previous year. I respect Messi immensely, but I felt my contributions were overlooked. Sometimes, as a player, you wonder what more you could have done.”

Recognition Beyond Trophies: Lewandowski’s Perspective

Despite these setbacks, Lewandowski remains philosophical. He acknowledges the subjective nature of individual awards and emphasizes the importance of team achievements. “While the Ballon d’Or is a dream for every footballer, I try to focus on what I can control—helping my team win and setting an example for younger players.”

Lewandowski has also used his platform to spotlight rising stars. He has tipped Barcelona teammates Lamine Yamal and Raphinha as future Ballon d’Or contenders, stating, “Both have incredible potential. If they keep progressing, they’ll be among football’s elite for years to come.”

What’s Next for the Striker?

As Lewandowski embarks on a new chapter at Barcelona, his hunger for success remains undiminished. Despite the Ballon d’Or setbacks, he continues to set high standards and target new milestones. His commitment to excellence on and off the field cements his legacy as one of the modern game’s greats.

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Opinion: Recognition Isn’t Always Fair, But Legacy Endures

Lewandowski’s story is a stark reminder that football, like life, isn’t always just. Even with undeniable statistics and historic achievements, external factors can change the narrative. His continued drive, sportsmanship, and humility have endeared him to fans worldwide and set a powerful example for aspiring players. While the Ballon d’Or may have eluded him, Lewandowski’s influence and legacy are firmly established in football history.