One thing about the Balon d'or is that it is a sentimental award; it doesnt necessarily satisfy and rewards based on activity on the football pitch; but rather on the sentiments of voters who are (country captains, club captains, journalists etc). Who ever wins between Haaland and Messi; just know they got the most votes
That's true. However, what makes the Ballon D'Or selection crucial is because those who win the Ballon D'Or will go down in history as the best players in the world that year. Elections may be sentimental but what happens after winning is what matters. Perhaps the Ballon D'Or is the only best player award that is very influential for a player to be known. I have rarely come across a best player award like the Ballon D'Or in other sports. Or maybe it's just me who doesn't know yet?