In the realm of football, few names echo with the same resonance and prestige as Robert Lewandowski. The Barcelona striker has built an illustrious career, adorned with an impressive array of trophies. However, there remains one accolade that has consistently eluded his grasp: the Ballon d’Or.
Lewandowski’s case for the Ballon d’Or was particularly compelling in 2020 when he achieved the remarkable feat of winning the sextuple with Bayern Munich. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the award was not presented that year, leaving Lewandowski without the recognition he felt he deserved.
Nevertheless, four years on, the Polish striker has reminisced on this matter in a recent interview with Sport Bild, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo:
“Of course, I would have liked to receive the Ballon d’Or someday. It’s not that I’m angry or sad because I still lack this trophy. But my feeling is that it would have been my turn in either of the two years.”
Reflecting on his outstanding performance in 2020 and 2021, the 35-year-old Barcelona ace also highlighted his scoring prowess, having netted an impressive 100 goals in 85 games:
“In 2020 and 2021, I spent the best years of my career. Recently, a friend sent me statistics: I scored 100 goals in 85 games.”
However, despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or, the veteran striker remains proud of his achievements and is open to the possibility of receiving a retrospective award for his exceptional 2020 season.
“The one from 2021 belongs to Lionel Messi. I noticed that there are rumors about a retrospective award for 2020. This year was extraordinary for me, I was at my highest level, and we won everything.”
“Let’s put it this way: if I received the Ballon d’Or 2020 four years later, I certainly wouldn’t feel offended: it would be a great honor and I would accept the award.”
Regardless of the Ballon d’Or outcome, Robert Lewandowski has unquestionably cemented his place as one of the greatest strikers of his generation. Despite nearing the twilight of his career, he remains driven by ambition, aiming to end the current season on a high note despite a relatively underwhelming campaign with the Catalan giants by his own high standards.
