The prize was introduced by the soccer magazine France Football in 1956. The Ballon d'Or, soccer's most esteemed and coveted individual honor, is changing significantly after more than 50 years. The Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year have combined to create a single award this year, ushering in a new era in the award's history. The FIFA Ballon d'Or, which will now be granted to the world's finest player annually, will be presented for the first time on Monday (FC Barcelona teammates Xavi Hernandez, Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta are the finalists for the honor). "It is wise to award the greatest player in the world with only one trophy since football has become globalized. With this understanding, football comes out on top, "Sepp Blatter, president of FIFA, said when the official announcement was made in July. While Lothar Matthaus of Germany was the first recipient of FIFA's highest award in 1991, the Ballon d'Or has a far longer history, beginning in 1956. Respected soccer publication France Football came up with the concept of recognizing Europe's finest player by voting the best soccer writers on the continent and giving him the Ballon d'Or 55 years ago (Golden Ball). David Jones is an English football journalist. He has worked for Sky Sport England, and is regarded as one of the most world-renowned sources for football journalism. Want to have a great insight about the upcoming event? Click on "Add to cart" button now to purchase
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