Premier League Legend Reflects on Winning the Prestigious Award

Former England footballer Michael Owen has opened up about his Ballon d'Or win in 2001, admitting that he doesn't believe he was the best player in the world at the time. Despite becoming just the fourth Englishman to receive the prestigious award, Owen thinks there were other players who had better campaigns.

Owen's Impressive Achievements in 2001

Owen, who was playing for his boyhood club Liverpool, had an exceptional year in 2001. He scored 28 goals in 43 games as the Reds completed a historic treble, winning the FA Cup, League Cup, and UEFA Cup. His outstanding performance led to him being voted as the world's top footballer, beating out competition from Real Madrid's Raul and Bayern Munich's Oliver Kahn.

Humility and Recognition of Other Players

Despite his Ballon d'Or win, Owen remains humble and acknowledges that there were better players than him at the time. He mentions football legends Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane as examples. Owen admits that although he felt like the best player when he stepped on the pitch, he recognizes that others had stronger campaigns and were more deserving of the title.

The Evolution of Football

Owen also reflects on the changes in football over the years. He believes that the sport has become more focused on athleticism, with players needing to be fast and physically fit. He contrasts this with the "pure" nature of the game in the past. Owen wonders if players like Matt Le Tissier, known for his exceptional skill, would even make it into a team in today's competitive digital world.

Previous English Ballon d'Or Winners

Owen's Ballon d'Or win in 2001 followed in the footsteps of other English football legends. Stanley Matthews won the award in 1956, Bobby Charlton in 1966, and Kevin Keegan in 1978 and 1979. Owen acknowledges the company he was in and the greatness of those who came before him.