Four Years On, Robert Lewandowski Still Reflects on the Missed 2020 Ballon d’Or. Four years after missing out on the 2020 Ballon d’Or due to the ceremony’s cancellation, Robert Lewandowski remains deeply affected by France Football’s decision.
The Polish striker has never hidden his disappointment and confusion over the episode, especially after a year in which he utterly dominated the footballing stage.
With 48 goals in 40 matches, numerous records shattered, and a Champions League triumph with Bayern Munich, Lewandowski was widely expected to win the prestigious award. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2020 Ballon d’Or was canceled—a decision that continues to raise eyebrows.
In a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand, Lewandowski reflected on this defining moment in his career:
“At the time, I didn’t understand why. All the leagues were playing, the Champions League was being played, and for me, it was just… why?” he admitted, still puzzled by the decision.
A Political Decision?
Some observers have gone as far as to call the cancellation a “political decision.” It denied Lewandowski, who was at the peak of his powers, an accolade that seemed destined for him. The shadow of the missed Ballon d’Or continues to loom over his career, despite his numerous achievements.
Now thriving with FC Barcelona, Lewandowski boasts impressive stats this season: 19 goals in 17 matches across all competitions. Despite his ongoing success, the Polish forward remains bitter about the injustice he believes he suffered in 2020.
In a recent statement, he remarked:
“I know that football sometimes works like politics because if you have football, you have business. And if you have business, you have politics.” This pointed comment was clearly aimed at France Football, which decided against awarding the 2020 Ballon d’Or but handed the 2021 trophy to Lionel Messi—a year when Lewandowski was again among the top contenders.
Turning the Page
Despite the lingering resentment, the 36-year-old striker appears to have gained perspective. He recently stated that he would be willing to accept the award if France Football decided to retroactively grant him the missed Ballon d’Or.
This gesture would allow him to close a contentious chapter of his career while cementing his legacy in the history of football.
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