Toni Kroos doesn't feel the need to win the Ballon d'Or. The now-retired midfielder still has a chance at the prestigious individual award, but he believes someone else should win it.
Toni Kroos, a legend in modern football, has consistently downplayed the importance of personal accolades throughout his illustrious career, and his attitude towards the Ballon d'Or is no different.
Speaking to the Spanish media, the former Real Madrid midfielder made it clear that winning the prestigious award is not a priority for him. “The Ballon d'Or is not that important to me,” Kroos said, highlighting that his focus has always been on the team and collective success rather than individual recognition. Despite being one of the most decorated midfielders of his generation, Kroos remains modest, expressing satisfaction as long as the award goes to a teammate from Real Madrid. "As long as someone from Real Madrid wins it, I’m fine with that. Vini deserves it, Jude deserves it, and Carvajal deserves it. For me, it’s not necessary," he added.
Kroos’ selfless nature has been a defining characteristic throughout his career. While many players dream of winning the Ballon d'Or, Kroos has consistently prioritized team achievements. His focus on ensuring that Real Madrid players like Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Dani Carvajal get the recognition they deserve underscores his commitment to the club’s success rather than personal glory. Even in retirement, he remains a staunch supporter of his former teammates, acknowledging their talents and contributions to Real Madrid’s ongoing success.
Last season was yet another chapter in Real Madrid’s storied history, with the club securing both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League titles. Kroos played a vital role in these victories, helping the team with his precise passing, vision, and experience. These achievements came just before he decided to hang up his boots at the end of the European Championship, marking the end of an extraordinary career at both club and international levels. Despite stepping away from the pitch, Kroos found himself among the nominees for the 2023 Ballon d'Or, with France Football including him on their list of thirty candidates for the prestigious prize. It’s a testament to his enduring influence and contribution to the sport that he was still considered for such an honor, even after retiring.
Real Madrid, a club synonymous with excellence, has a significant presence in the Ballon d'Or race this year. With six contenders, including Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Vinícius Júnior, Dani Carvajal, Kylian Mbappé, and Antonio Rüdiger, the club remains at the forefront of world football. The inclusion of so many Madrid players reflects their dominance both in Spain and on the European stage. According to reports from Marca, Vinícius Júnior, the electrifying Brazilian winger, is set to win the award. Vinícius has been one of Real Madrid's standout players, dazzling fans with his speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability. His rise to the top has been meteoric, and winning the Ballon d'Or would be a fitting recognition of his impact on the world stage.
Interestingly, earlier this year, Kroos joked that he might be the one to win the Ballon d'Or. While his comment was made in jest, it hinted at his lighthearted attitude toward individual awards. For Kroos, the joy of football has always been about the game itself, the camaraderie with teammates, and the pursuit of collective glory. Even now, in retirement, he remains grounded and focused on the bigger picture.
Beyond his reflections on the Ballon d'Or, Kroos also touched on his life after football. Transitioning away from the sport can be difficult for many athletes, but Kroos has managed the change with his usual calm and composed demeanor. "I feel good," he said, acknowledging that while there are challenges, he is content with his decision. "That doesn't mean it's not hard sometimes," he admitted, alluding to the adjustments that come with leaving the sport that has defined so much of his life. However, Kroos was quick to put things in perspective. "In the end, it’s just football. There are more important things in life."
Kroos’ sentiments reflect the wisdom of a seasoned professional who has seen it all in the world of football. Having won multiple Champions League titles, World Cup honors with Germany, and countless other trophies, Kroos has nothing left to prove on the pitch. His recognition that football is just one aspect of life speaks to his balanced outlook and maturity.
As he navigates this new chapter in his life, Kroos seems at peace with his career and his decision to step away from the game. His legacy, both at Real Madrid and in international football, is firmly established, and while he may not be chasing individual awards like the Ballon d'Or, his contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come. Whether through his incredible achievements on the field or his humility off it, Toni Kroos remains a figure of admiration and respect in the footballing world.
