Zidane says Iniesta was robbed of the Ballon d’Or: "It’s obvious he deserved it"

Zinedine Zidane has openly expressed his belief that Andrés Iniesta was unfairly denied the Ballon d’Or in 2010, a year in which the Spanish midfielder led La Roja to World Cup glory in South Africa.

Zidane, who won the Ballon d'Or in 1998 after leading France to the world title, pointed to the injustice of the 2010 vote, which saw Lionel Messi claim the award despite Argentina's early exit from the tournament.

"I admired the way Iniesta played. He didn’t win the Ballon d’Or, but he deserved it. He should’ve won it the year he won the World Cup. He had an exceptional year, scored in the final. It’s obvious he deserved it," said Zidane.

Messi over Iniesta in controversial 2010 decision

In 2010, Barcelona won LaLiga, but not the Champions League. Messi was top scorer in both competitions, yet it was Iniesta who delivered the most iconic moment of the year, firing home the extra-time winner in the World Cup final against the Netherlands.

The decision sparked criticism, especially given the Ballon d’Or had traditionally gone to a player from the World Cup-winning team in tournament years—Ronaldo Nazario in 2002 and Fabio Cannavaro in 2006.

France Football editor apologized to Iniesta

Years later, France Football editor Pascal Ferré issued a public apology to Iniesta upon his retirement.
"Forgive us, Andrés," wrote Ferré. "He wasn't just a player—he was the player. His sacrifices for the team ultimately cost him greater individual recognition."

Ferré praised Iniesta’s selflessness and unique elegance on the pitch: "While most of his peers struggled, he enjoyed football for 15 years by making everything look easy. No ego, just the love for the game."

---