AFCON 2025
The 2010 Ballon d’Or going to Lionel Messi still sparks heated debates among football fans, with many convinced that Wesley Sneijder was unfairly overlooked.
Sneijder’s incredible year made him a serious contender, and here’s why he had a strong case to edge out Messi for the award.
1. Sneijder Led Inter to the Historic Treble
Sneijder was the heartbeat of Inter Milan’s magical 2009/10 season, where they clinched Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and the Champions League—a rare treble.
He racked up eight goals and 15 assists in 41 games, pulling the strings in midfield. His masterclass in the Champions League semi-final, outshining Messi’s Barcelona in a 3-1 win, was a defining moment.
Meanwhile, Messi’s Barca only bagged La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, falling short in Europe. Sneijder’s role in Inter’s dominance gave him a clear edge.
2. Shining at the World Cup
Sneijder carried the Netherlands to the 2010 World Cup final, a stunning run for a team not fancied to go deep. He scored five goals, tying for top scorer, and earned the Silver Ball as the tournament’s second-best player.
Messi, on the other hand, didn’t find the net as Argentina crashed out in the quarter-finals. World Cup heroics often sway Ballon d’Or voters, and Sneijder’s clutch performances on the biggest stage were hard to ignore.
3. Individual brilliance and performances
Sneijder wasn’t just a playmaker; he was a leader who elevated everyone around him. His vision, pinpoint passing, and big-game mentality earned him UEFA’s Midfielder of the Year award.
While Messi’s 47 goals were jaw-dropping, Sneijder’s mix of creativity, grit, and team impact felt more complete. Even France Football later admitted Sneijder might’ve won under their old voting rules.
Messi’s genius is undeniable, but Sneijder’s treble, World Cup heroics, and all-around game made 2010 his year. The snub still stings for fans who saw his magic.
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