Some goals are so incredible that they deserve special recognition. That’s why FIFA introduced the Puskás Award in 2009. Named after Ferenc Puskás, one of the greatest goal scorers in history, this award honors the best goal of each year. It doesn't matter if it’s a bicycle kick, a long-range rocket, or an incredible solo run—if it's beautiful, it has a chance to win. Let’s take a look at the legendary goals and players who have won this prestigious award.
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The First Winner: Cristiano Ronaldo (2009)
Cristiano Ronaldo had already made a name for himself as one of the best players in the world. In 2009, while playing for Manchester United, he scored an unbelievable long-range goal against FC Porto in the Champions League. His strike from outside the box flew past the goalkeeper, earning him the first-ever Puskás Award.
Stunning Goals Over the Years
Since Ronaldo’s win, the Puskás Award has been given to many incredible players. Each goal is unique, showcasing creativity, skill, and perfect technique. Here are the winners from 2010 to today:
2010: Hamit Altıntop
The Turkish midfielder stunned the world with a powerful volley from the edge of the box while playing for Turkey against Kazakhstan. The precision and technique made this goal unforgettable.
2011: Neymar
Brazilian star Neymar was already showing his talent at a young age. His solo goal for Santos against Flamengo saw him dribble past multiple defenders before finishing with ease. It was a moment of pure magic.
2012: Miroslav Stoch
Stoch, playing for Fenerbahçe, scored an outstanding volley from outside the box. The way he struck the ball with perfect timing made it one of the best goals ever.
2013: Zlatan Ibrahimović
Zlatan is known for his spectacular goals, but his bicycle kick against England was something special. From over 30 yards out, he acrobatically struck the ball over the goalkeeper, leaving the world in awe.
2014: James Rodríguez
The 2014 World Cup produced many incredible moments, but James Rodríguez’s volley against Uruguay was the best. The Colombian controlled the ball with his chest before firing a perfect shot into the net.
2015: Wendell Lira
A relatively unknown player at the time, Wendell Lira’s acrobatic bicycle kick goal in Brazil’s lower leagues shocked the world. His incredible skill earned him the award over Lionel Messi.
2016: Mohd Faiz Subri
This goal defied physics. Malaysian player Mohd Faiz Subri scored from a free kick that swerved and dipped in ways no one expected. It was a jaw-dropping moment.
2017: Olivier Giroud
Giroud’s famous ‘scorpion kick’ for Arsenal against Crystal Palace was pure genius. The cross came in behind him, but he adjusted and flicked the ball into the top corner with his heel.
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2018: Mohamed Salah
Salah’s solo run against Everton in the Merseyside Derby was brilliant. His balance, strength, and precise finish made him a deserved winner.
2019: Dániel Zsóri
A teenage sensation, Zsóri scored a last-minute bicycle kick on his debut for Debrecen. The moment, the technique, and the celebration made this a worthy Puskás winner.
2020: Son Heung-min
Son’s solo run against Burnley covered almost the entire field. He picked up the ball in his own half, sprinted past defenders, and calmly finished. It was a goal that showed speed, skill, and composure.
2021: Erik Lamela
Lamela stunned the world with a ‘rabona’ goal for Tottenham against Arsenal. With defenders closing in, he used his left foot to wrap around his right leg, sending the ball curling into the net.
2022: Marcin Oleksy
A groundbreaking moment, Marcin Oleksy became the first amputee footballer to win the award. His stunning bicycle kick in an amputee football match proved that beauty in football knows no limits.
2023: Guilherme Madruga
Madruga’s incredible bicycle kick goal from outside the box was a reminder that football never runs out of magical moments. The skill, power, and execution made it an instant classic.
2024: Alejandro Garnacho
In 2024, Manchester United's young winger, Alejandro Garnacho, clinched the Puskás Award for his stunning bicycle kick against Everton in November 2023. This acrobatic goal not only showcased his exceptional talent but also earned him global recognition.
What Makes a Puskás-Worthy Goal?
Every year, FIFA selects the best goals based on three main criteria:
- Aesthetic Beauty – The goal must be visually stunning. Whether it’s a long-range strike, a perfect volley, or an acrobatic finish, it needs to impress fans.
- Importance of the Goal – Some goals become legendary because of the moment in which they were scored. Last-minute winners, goals in finals, and historic achievements all add extra weight.
- Fair Play – The goal must be scored in a proper, sportsmanlike manner. Controversial goals, like those involving handballs or fouls, do not qualify.
Who Could Win in the Future?
Every season, new players create breathtaking goals. With rising stars like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Vinícius Júnior, the future of the Puskás Award is bright. Fans eagerly wait to see the next unforgettable moment.
Conclusion
The Puskás Award celebrates the beauty of football. It reminds us why we love the game—because of its incredible skill, creativity, and moments of magic. From Ronaldo’s rocket in 2009 to Garnacho’s stunning bicycle kick in 2024, each winner has given fans a reason to cheer. Who will score the next wonder goal? We can’t wait to find out!
For a visual recap of Garnacho's award-winning goal, check out the official highlight below:
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