Ademola Lookman, a forward for Atalanta and the Nigerian Super Eagles, has been nominated as the only African player for the 2024 Ballon d'Or. His nomination follows a standout season where he scored 17 goals and provided 11 assists, including a hat trick in the UEFA Europa League final, leading Atalanta to their first European title. This marks the first Ballon d'Or nomination in Lookman's career. The list of nominees includes notable players such as Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham, while Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are absent from the list this year. The award ceremony is scheduled for October 28, 2024, in Paris. Lookman's achievements have sparked hopes for him to succeed Victor Osimhen as the African Footballer of the Year.