Which player was the first to set the record of winning the FIFA world best player of the year back-to-back in football?

Football is more than just a sport; it’s a global phenomenon that unites millions of fans across continents. Among the many accolades in the game, the FIFA World Best Player of the Year award, now known as The Best FIFA Men’s Player, stands as a testament to unparalleled talent and hard work. Winning it once is a monumental achievement, but winning it back-to-back signifies true dominance in world football. This article dives deep into the question: Which player was the first to set the record of winning the FIFA World Best Player of the Year back-to-back in football?

The Origin of the FIFA World Best Player Award

Before exploring the player who achieved this remarkable feat, it’s important to understand the origins and significance of the FIFA World Best Player award. Established in 1991, this accolade was introduced by FIFA to honor the best individual player in world football. Voted on by coaches, captains, and journalists from across the globe, the award quickly became one of the most coveted prizes in the game.

The award evolved over the years, merging with the Ballon d’Or between 2010 and 2015 to become the FIFA Ballon d’Or, before splitting again in 2016 into separate honors. However, the prestige attached to being crowned the world’s best player has remained unchanged.

Who Set the Record for Winning the Award Back-to-Back?

The first player to achieve this historic milestone was Marco van Basten, a legendary Dutch striker known for his elegance, technique, and goal-scoring prowess. Van Basten won the FIFA World Best Player of the Year award in 1992 and 1993, solidifying his place as one of football’s all-time greats.

Marco van Basten: The Early Years

Born on October 31, 1964, in Utrecht, Netherlands, Marco van Basten began his footballing journey at a young age. He joined the Ajax youth academy, a breeding ground for many football legends, and quickly rose through the ranks. By the time he made his senior debut for Ajax in 1982, it was clear that he was destined for greatness.

During his time at Ajax, van Basten demonstrated his goal-scoring instincts, netting an astonishing 128 goals in 133 appearances. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, coupled with his technical brilliance, made him the perfect forward.

Transition to AC Milan: The Rise of a Superstar

In 1987, Marco van Basten made a career-defining move to AC Milan, joining a squad that would go on to dominate European football. Despite early struggles with injuries, van Basten showcased his resilience and became the centerpiece of one of the greatest teams in history.

Under the guidance of coach Arrigo Sacchi, and later Fabio Capello, van Basten thrived in a system that emphasized teamwork and attacking brilliance. Alongside fellow Dutchmen Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard, van Basten helped AC Milan win multiple Serie A titles and back-to-back European Cups (now the UEFA Champions League) in 1989 and 1990.

The Historic Back-to-Back FIFA World Best Player Awards

By 1992, Marco van Basten was at the peak of his powers. His incredible performances for AC Milan and the Dutch national team earned him the FIFA World Best Player of the Year award. Let’s take a closer look at what made these years so special for van Basten.

1992: The First Win

In 1992, van Basten delivered a series of unforgettable performances that left fans and critics in awe. He was instrumental in leading AC Milan to another Serie A title, scoring 25 goals in the league and cementing his reputation as one of the deadliest strikers in football history. His ability to score from seemingly impossible angles, combined with his composure under pressure, made him unstoppable.

At the international level, van Basten continued to shine for the Netherlands, further enhancing his credentials. His efforts earned him the inaugural FIFA World Best Player award, a fitting recognition for his extraordinary talent.

1993: The Second Win

Winning the award once is impressive, but van Basten’s consistency ensured he claimed the title again in 1993. Despite facing fierce competition from players like Roberto Baggio and Romário, van Basten’s performances remained unmatched. His goal-scoring exploits, combined with his leadership on the pitch, made him a deserving recipient of the accolade for the second consecutive year.

Unfortunately, van Basten’s career was cut short by recurring ankle injuries, forcing him to retire prematurely in 1995 at the age of 31. However, his legacy lives on as one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.

The Legacy of Marco van Basten

Marco van Basten’s back-to-back FIFA World Best Player awards set a benchmark for excellence in football. He was not just a prolific goal-scorer but also a complete forward, capable of linking up play, creating chances, and inspiring teammates. His ability to adapt to different situations and opponents made him a nightmare for defenders and a joy to watch for fans.

Van Basten’s achievements have inspired generations of footballers, and his influence is still felt in the modern game. Despite the challenges he faced with injuries, his contribution to football remains unparalleled.

Other Players Who Have Achieved the Feat

Since van Basten’s historic achievement, several other players have won the FIFA World Best Player award back-to-back, including:

• Ronaldo Nazário (1996 and 1997): The Brazilian phenomenon known for his electrifying pace and clinical finishing.
• Ronaldinho (2004 and 2005): The Brazilian magician who dazzled fans with his skill and creativity.
• Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: The two modern-day titans of football, each dominating the award scene for over a decade.

While these players have added their names to the list, Marco van Basten remains the pioneer of this extraordinary accomplishment.

Conclusion

So, which player was the first to set the record of winning the FIFA World Best Player of the Year back-to-back in football? The answer is Marco van Basten, a player whose brilliance transcended the boundaries of the sport. His back-to-back wins in 1992 and 1993 established a standard of excellence that few have matched.

Van Basten’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, skill, and passion for the game. Whether you’re a lifelong football fan or new to the sport, his legacy serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.

In the ever-evolving world of football, Marco van Basten’s name remains etched in history, a true legend who set the stage for generations of players to follow.