Julián Quiñones Becomes Second-Ever Mexican Player Nominated For Ballon d'Or

Julián Quiñones made the 2026 Ballon d'Or 30-man shortlist — only the second Mexican ever nominated.
He won the 2025 Saudi Pro League Golden Boot with 33 goals in 31 games, ahead of Ivan Toney and Cristiano Ronaldo.
As Mexico co-hosted the 2026 World Cup, Quiñones scored the tournament opener (a CONCACAF first), finished with four goals (tying Mexico’s single-WC record) and helped the team reach the round of 16.