Julián Quiñones Makes History with Ballon d'Or Nomination
Julián Quiñones has made history by becoming only the second Mexican player nominated for the Ballon d'Or, following a standout season in the Saudi Pro League and a remarkable World Cup performance. His achievements highlight his significant impact on the field and the growing recognition of Mexican talent in global football.
In a remarkable achievement for Mexican football, Julián Quiñones has secured a place on the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist, marking him as only the second Mexican player in history to receive this prestigious nomination. The first was the recently retired goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who was nominated back in 2007.
Quiñones, a 29-year-old forward currently playing for the Mexico national team and Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah, has had a stellar season that has combined impressive individual scoring records with a standout performance during the World Cup. He concluded the 2025 Saudi Pro League season with an astonishing tally of 33 goals in just 31 appearances, earning the league's Golden Boot ahead of notable players like Ivan Toney and five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.
His exceptional form carried over into the World Cup, where Mexico co-hosted the tournament alongside the United States and Canada. Quiñones made headlines by scoring Mexico's first goal of the tournament in the opening match against South Africa, becoming the first player from a CONCACAF nation to achieve this feat. Throughout the tournament, he continued to impress, scoring a total of four goals and providing an assist, which tied him with legends Luis Hernandez and Javier Hernandez for the most goals scored by a Mexican player in a single World Cup.
Mexico's journey in the tournament saw them advance to the round of 16, where they faced England, ultimately being eliminated. However, the team did manage to break a 40-year drought in knockout stage matches with a victory over Ecuador in the round of 32. Quiñones' four goals at the World Cup not only showcased his talent but also highlighted the growing prowess of Mexican players on the international stage.
Let's Call It What It Is
Before his move to Saudi Arabia, Quiñones had a successful career in Liga MX, where he played for clubs such as Tigres UANL, Venados, Lobos BUAP, Atlas, and Club América. Over nearly a decade, he appeared in 258 matches, scored 94 goals, and won nine Liga MX titles, including back-to-back championships with Atlas in 2021 and 2022, which ended a 70-year title drought for the club.
The announcement of the Ballon d'Or winner is set for Monday, October 26, 2026, at the London Palladium in England, marking the first time this prestigious event will take place at this venue. Quiñones' nomination not only reflects his individual achievements but also signifies a growing recognition of Mexican talent in the global football landscape, paving the way for future generations of players.
