Brazilian superstar Neymar has voiced his displeasure at the Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings, describing fellow countryman Raphinha’s fifth-place finish as “a huge joke.”

The Santos forward took to Instagram on Monday night to question the credibility of the award after the Barcelona winger failed to make the top three, despite enjoying a remarkable season with the Blaugrana.

Ousmane Dembélé was crowned the winner of the 2025 Ballon d’Or, edging out teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, while Vitinha and Mohamed Salah also finished above Raphinha in the rankings.

For Neymar, the decision was unjust. “Raphinha in 5th is too much of a joke,” the former PSG forward posted online, sparking debate among fans and pundits.

Raphinha’s numbers from last season back Neymar’s frustration: the Brazilian played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s domestic double, contributing 56 goals in 57 appearances across all competitions. To many, he was not only Barça’s most consistent performer but also one of the finest wingers in world football last season.

Opinion: Is the Ballon d’Or Losing Its Spark?

Neymar’s outburst isn’t just about loyalty to his compatriot—it highlights a deeper issue that has lingered around the Ballon d’Or for years: the blurred criteria behind the award.

How does a player who delivered nearly a goal contribution per game, carried his team to major trophies, and consistently produced big moments finish behind others with less influence on silverware? While Dembélé and Yamal’s brilliance cannot be denied, leaving Raphinha outside the top three raises eyebrows.

Perhaps this is where the Ballon d’Or has lost some of its shine. Once regarded as the ultimate measure of footballing excellence, it now often feels like a popularity contest swayed by hype, narratives, and reputation rather than cold, hard performances.

Raphinha’s case is a reminder that the football world should celebrate consistency and impact as much as raw talent and flair. If the Ballon d’Or wants to preserve its prestige, its voting body must find a way to better reflect the realities of the pitch.

In truth, Neymar may have been blunt, but his frustration echoes what many fans already feel: Raphinha deserved more respect on that stage. And maybe, just maybe, the Ballon d’Or needs a reset.