In the tenth edition of The Guardian’s annual poll to determine the world’s best footballers, 219 judges—including former players, coaches, and journalists—cast their votes to finalize the rankings.

Bayern Munich’s Polish striker Robert Lewandowski claimed the top spot, finishing ahead of Paris Saint-Germain’s Argentine star Lionel Messi.

Liverpool and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah secured third place, followed closely by Real Madrid’s French striker Karim Benzema.

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The Guardian’s Top 10 Players in the World for 2021

1. Robert Lewandowski – Bayern Munich (Poland)

2. Lionel Messi – Barcelona / Paris Saint-Germain (Argentina)

3. Mohamed Salah – Liverpool (Egypt)

4. Karim Benzema – Real Madrid (France)

5. Jorginho – Chelsea (Italy)

6. Kylian Mbappé – Paris Saint-Germain (France)

7. Erling Haaland – Borussia Dortmund (Norway)

8. Cristiano Ronaldo – Juventus / Manchester United (Portugal)

9. N’Golo Kanté – Chelsea (France)

10. Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City (Belgium)**

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Messi had won the 2021 Ballon d’Or, awarded by France Football, with Lewandowski finishing as runner-up. The rivalry between the two stars is set to continue, alongside strong competition from Salah and Benzema, in the race for The Best FIFA Men’s Player award.

FIFA is scheduled to announce the winner during the 2020–2021 “The Best” awards ceremony on Monday, January 17, 2022.