2026 Ballon d’Or: “I am the best, but journalists will vote”

2026 Ballon d’Or: “I am the best, but journalists will vote” – Kylian Mbappé

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé says he considers himself the best player in the world but accepts that journalists will decide whether he wins the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Mbappé made the comments ahead of Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League clash with Inter Milan, following their 1-0 La Liga defeat to Real Betis.

The French forward has scored four goals in four league games this season but missed the chance to add to his tally after failing to convert a penalty against Betis.

Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid scores his team’s fourth goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Real Madrid and Real Sociedad at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on August 26, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Asked if he considers himself the best player in the world, Mbappé said:

“Always, but that’s something very personal. Everyone has their own opinion. Some might think I am the best in the world, while others might not.

“I don’t think everyone has to think like me. Of course, I think this year could be a good year to win the Ballon d’Or, but as I said earlier, it’s the journalists who will vote.”