Messi, Ronaldo still in spotlight as FIFA Best Awards approach

Despite being at the twilight of their illustrious careers, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to be prominent figures as FIFA on Friday announced the nominees for The Best FIFA Football Awards for 2024.

Messi is shortlisted for The Best FIFA Men's Player award -- a title he has won a record three times -- for having led Inter Miami to the MLS Supporters' Shield and winning the Copa América with Argentina. This marks his eighth consecutive nomination, making the eight-time Balon d'Or-winner the only player to feature every year since 2016.

Other nominees include Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappe and recent Ballon d'Or winner Rodri.

Ronaldo, meanwhile, missed the shortlist for the third year running but the five-time Balon d'Or-winner is one of the 77 players nominated for The Best FIFA Men's 11 of 2024, joining Messi among 22 forwards competing for a spot.

For the first time, fans share equal voting power with coaches, captains, and media for major awards, including selecting The Best FIFA Men's 11. Voting is open until December 10 this year on FIFA.com.