My TOP 10 Ballon d'Or 2002

This is my ranking, my opinion on the Ballon d'Or of the year 2002. This ranking is based on the calendar year, not the season. What counts for this ranking is the player's regularity over the calendar year, the number of matches played, the ability to raise his level in big games, statistics (goals, assists, clean sheets, goals conceded, etc.) and trophies won (collective and individual).

In 2002, Henrik Larsson delivered a season of extraordinary brilliance, cementing his status as one of the most prolific and influential strikers in football. Representing Celtic, he was the driving force behind their attack, combining clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and an unrelenting work ethic. Larsson’s performances in the Scottish Premier League were exceptional, as he consistently delivered goals and assists that showcased his ability to dominate matches. His leadership and influence were pivotal in Celtic’s domestic success, inspiring his team with relentless determination and moments of magic. 2002 was a year where Larsson’s performances left an unforgettable mark on football history.

In 2002, a young Ronaldinho began to captivate the footballing world with his extraordinary talent and flair. Representing Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), he showcased his unique blend of creativity, technical skill, and audacious dribbling that left defenders bewildered. His ability to execute jaw-dropping tricks, deliver precise passes, and score stunning goals made him a standout performer, even at this early stage of his career. Ronaldinho’s performances in Ligue 1 were a testament to his immense potential, as he consistently brought excitement and unpredictability to the pitch. Beyond his club performances, Ronaldinho’s brilliance extended to the international stage with Brazil, where his youthful exuberance and natural talent shone brightly. His ability to entertain and inspire fans with his artistry and joy for the game set him apart as a truly special player.

In 2002, Alessandro Del Piero showcased his exceptional talent and leadership, representing Juventus with grace and determination. As a creative force in the team, he combined technical brilliance, precise passing, and an eye for goal to deliver consistently impactful performances. Del Piero’s ability to orchestrate attacks and provide moments of magic made him a vital figure in Juventus’s domestic and European campaigns. His composure under pressure and knack for delivering in crucial moments highlighted his importance to the team. Beyond his contributions on the pitch, Del Piero’s professionalism and dedication to the game earned him admiration from fans and teammates alike. His influence extended beyond goals and assists, as he inspired those around him with his work ethic and passion for the sport.

In 2002, Raúl González delivered a season of remarkable consistency and leadership, solidifying his place as a key figure for Real Madrid. As a forward, he combined intelligent movement, clinical finishing, and an innate ability to perform in crucial moments. Raúl’s performances in La Liga were instrumental in Real Madrid’s domestic success, as he consistently delivered goals and assists that showcased his technical brilliance and composure under pressure. On the European stage, Raúl’s influence was equally significant, as he played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s journey to the Champions League semi-finals. His ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches highlighted his importance to the team and his reputation as a player for the big moments.

In 2002, Ronaldo Nazário achieved one of the most remarkable comebacks in football history after enduring a career-threatening knee injury. His resilience and determination were on full display as he returned to the pitch with renewed vigor, representing Brazil in the FIFA World Cup. Ronaldo's performances during the tournament were nothing short of legendary, as he silenced all doubts about his fitness and form. Scoring eight goals, including two in the final against Germany, he led Brazil to their fifth World Cup title, showcasing his explosive pace, technical brilliance, and clinical finishing. This incredible redemption story was a testament to Ronaldo's mental strength and unparalleled talent. His ability to overcome adversity and reclaim his place at the pinnacle of the sport inspired fans and players alike. 2002 was not just a year of triumph for Ronaldo; it was a defining moment that solidified his legacy as one of football's greatest icons.

In 2002, Oliver Kahn delivered a season of unparalleled brilliance, cementing his status as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history. Representing Germany in the FIFA World Cup, he was the backbone of the team, producing a series of extraordinary performances that carried them to the final. Kahn’s composure, reflexes, and leadership were on full display throughout the tournament, as he made crucial saves in high-pressure moments, earning him the Golden Glove as the tournament’s best goalkeeper. At the club level, Kahn continued to excel with Bayern Munich, showcasing his consistency and commanding presence in goal. His ability to inspire confidence in his teammates and deliver match-winning saves made him an indispensable figure for both club and country.

In 2002, Roberto Carlos delivered a season of exceptional brilliance, showcasing his unique blend of power, pace, and technical skill. Representing Real Madrid, he was a key figure in their attack from the left flank, contributing with his trademark thunderous free kicks and precise crosses. His ability to transition seamlessly between defense and attack made him an invaluable asset to the team, as he consistently influenced matches with his dynamic style of play. On the international stage, Roberto Carlos continued to shine for Brazil, playing a pivotal role in their World Cup triumph. His performances were marked by his relentless energy, defensive solidity, and moments of magic that highlighted his importance to the team.

In 2002, Thierry Henry delivered a season of extraordinary brilliance, showcasing his immense talent and influence for Arsenal. As the focal point of their attack, he combined electrifying pace, technical skill, and creativity to dominate matches and leave defenders in his wake. Henry’s ability to score breathtaking goals and create opportunities for his teammates made him an unstoppable force in the Premier League, where he consistently delivered performances that defined Arsenal’s success. His flair, intelligence, and composure on the pitch set him apart as a player who could change the course of a game in an instant. Beyond his domestic achievements, Henry’s influence extended to European competitions, where he continued to shine on the biggest stage. His ability to rise in crucial moments and deliver match-winning contributions highlighted his status as one of the most complete forwards of his time.

In 2002, Michael Ballack delivered a season of extraordinary brilliance, showcasing his immense talent and versatility as a midfielder. Representing Bayer Leverkusen, he was the driving force behind their remarkable campaigns in the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Champions League, combining technical skill, tactical intelligence, and an ability to score crucial goals. Ballack’s performances were marked by his ability to dominate midfield battles, create chances, and inspire his team with his leadership and determination. His contributions were pivotal in Leverkusen’s success, as they came tantalizingly close to achieving a historic treble. However, the season ended in heartbreak for Ballack, as Leverkusen fell short in all three competitions within a matter of weeks. They lost the Bundesliga title on the final day, the DFB-Pokal final to Schalke, and the Champions League final to Real Madrid. To compound the disappointment, Ballack’s Germany team lost the World Cup final to Brazil later that summer. Despite these setbacks, Ballack’s performances throughout the year were a testament to his exceptional talent and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on football history.

In 2002, Zinedine Zidane delivered a season of extraordinary brilliance, highlighted by one of the most iconic goals in football history. Representing Real Madrid, Zidane showcased his exceptional talent and composure during the Champions League final against Bayer Leverkusen. With the score tied, Zidane produced a moment of magic, executing a stunning left-footed volley from the edge of the box that soared into the top corner. This goal not only secured Real Madrid’s victory but also became a defining moment in Zidane’s illustrious career, symbolizing his ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stage.

Beyond this unforgettable goal, Zidane’s performances throughout the season were marked by his elegance, vision, and technical mastery. His ability to control the tempo of matches and deliver moments of brilliance made him an indispensable figure for Real Madrid. 2002 was a year where Zidane’s artistry and leadership captivated the footballing world, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.