How Many Ballon D’Or Does Raul Have? The Answer Might Surprise You

Raul Gonzalez, a legendary Spanish forward, never won the Ballon d’Or. However, he came incredibly close in 2001, finishing second in the voting, just behind Michael Owen. This was a remarkable achievement for Raul, as he was considered one of the world’s best strikers at the time.

Raul’s performance in 2001 was truly exceptional. He led Real Madrid to a La Liga title and a Champions League semi-final, scoring an impressive number of goals. His consistent brilliance throughout the season earned him widespread recognition and numerous awards, including the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year award.

While he didn’t win the Ballon d’Or, his second-place finish reflects his exceptional talent and impact on the game. Raul’s incredible career, marked by numerous accolades and records, solidifies his place among football legends, even without the coveted Ballon d’Or trophy.

It’s worth noting that the Ballon d’Or, often referred to as the “best player in the world” award, is voted upon by a panel of journalists. The voting process can be subjective, influenced by various factors like team performance and individual achievements. While Raul’s 2001 season was undeniably impressive, he ultimately fell short to Owen, who was also having a phenomenal year with Liverpool.

Raul’s second-place finish underscores his remarkable talent and undeniable impact on the sport. Despite not winning the Ballon d’Or, he remains one of the most respected and celebrated footballers of all time, renowned for his goalscoring prowess, leadership, and contribution to Real Madrid’s success.