Neymar Jr. Calls Ballon d’Or 2025 Rankings ‘Absolute Joke’

Brazilian football star Neymar has voiced his frustration with the 2025 Ballon d’Or results, describing Raphinha’s fifth-place ranking as “an absolute joke.”

The event, which took place on Monday night, September 22nd at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, saw Ousmane Dembélé honored with the men’s Ballon d’Or. The Paris Saint-Germain forward was celebrated for his exceptional season, during which he played a pivotal role in the club’s historic campaign, securing their first-ever Champions League title.

Raphinha also delivered a remarkable season with Barcelona, but his fifth-place position didn’t sit well with Neymar. The former PSG star expressed his discontent on social media, labeling the ranking “a joke.”

At 28, Raphinha shone for the Catalan giants in the 2024-25 season, scoring 38 goals and registering 23 assists across 66 appearances in all competitions.

His goal contributions were instrumental in Barcelona’s success, clinching La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup titles.

Neymar’s remark fuels ongoing discussions about the impartiality of Ballon d’Or voting, especially concerning Brazilian players.

Neymar himself placed 9th in 2020, while Vinicius Jr. came second in 2024 behind Manchester City’s star midfielder Rodri, despite the Brazilian winger’s outstanding season with Real Madrid, sparking debates on potential biases.

2025 Ballon d’Or Men’s Top 5

Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)

Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

Vitinha (PSG)

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Raphinha (Barcelona)

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