Julián Quiñones , the dynamic forward for both Mexico and Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah, has earned a place on the prestigious 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist . His remarkable season included winning the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot and playing a pivotal leadership role for the Mexico National Team during the 2026 World Cup.
The 29-year-old striker finished the 2025 Saudi Pro League campaign with 33 goals in just 31 appearances, outscoring competitors such as Ivan Toney and Cristiano Ronaldo .
Following his stellar club campaign, Quiñones continued to make history on the world stage with Mexico. At the World Cup, he emerged as one of the tournament's standout players for the co-host nation. In Mexico's opening match against South Africa , Quiñones not only scored Mexico's first goal but also became the first player from a CONCACAF national team ever to net the opening goal of a World Cup.
Quiñones continued his impressive run, scoring three more goals and providing an assist during the tournament. His contributions helped El Tri reach the round of 16. Mexico's journey ended with a hard-fought loss to England , who later secured a third-place finish and the bronze medal.
By scoring four goals at a single World Cup, Quiñones joins the ranks of Mexican football legends Luis Hernandez (1998) and Javier Hernandez (2010, 2014, and 2018), matching their record for most goals scored by a Mexican player in the tournament's history.
The winner of the Ballon d'Or will be announced on Monday, October 26, 2026, with the award ceremony taking place at the historic London Palladium in England for the first time.
More: Ballon d'Or 2026: Full list of nominees for most prestigious awards in football
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mexico's star Julián Quiñones earns 2026 Ballon d'Or nomination
