Karim Benzema has won the 2022 Ballon d’Or, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest strikers of all time.
The 34-year-old was rewarded for a sensational 2021-22 campaign with Real Madrid, during which he scored 48 goals and 15 assists while leading his side to Champions League and La Liga titles. He also led France to a UEFA Nations League title in October 2021.
Benzema won the prize for the first time in his career as he continues his prolific form into his mid-30s.
Benzema has been one of the world’s best since emerging at Lyon in the mid-2000s, earning a move to Real Madrid in 2009. In Spain, Benzema has won four league titles and five Champions League, leading Madrid’s line while increasingly becoming a vocal leader in recent years.
Benzema’s scoring at Madrid notably increased after Cristiano Ronaldo departed to join Juventus ahead of the 2018-19 season. In each of the four subsequent seasons, Benzema has surpassed 20 league goals.
Gavi wins Kopa Trophy
Barcelona star Gavi has been awarded the Kopa Trophy, which is given to the best performing player under the age of 21.
Gavi was the youngest of the 10 finalists for the prize, which was first awarded in 2018. The Spanish midfielder broke through for club and country in 2021-22 at the age of 17, and looks set to be a longtime fixture for both Spain and Barcelona along with last year’s Kopa winner, Pedri.
Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga came in second in the voting, with Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala third.
Courtois wins Yashin Trophy
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been awarded the Yashin Trophy, which is given to the top goalkeeper.
The Belgian led Madrid to La Liga and Champions League success in 2021-22, saving perhaps his best performance for the Champions League final against Liverpool.
[lawrence-related id=8237,8229,8288]