History

National team coaches have selected the World Player of the Year since 1991 on behalf of the FIFA, the European Sports Magazine Association (ESM) and Adidas.

In 2001, FIFA inaugurated the World Women's Player of the Year Award, which is also voted on by national team coaches from around the world.

The oldest player of the year trophy is the Ballon d'Or (Golden Ball), presented to the outstanding player from Europe, as selected by a panel of European soccer writers.

The African Ballon d'Or was presented by France Football magazine from 1970 through 1996. Since 1997, the African Football Confederation has named the African player of the year.

El Pais of Uruguay initiated the South American player of the year award in 1971. The winner is chosen by a panel of sports editors from throughout Latin America.

Since 1991, the Spanish-language radio show Futbol de Primera has teamed with Honda to name the United States player of the year. Candidates are limited to those who have played for the U. S. national team.