AL KHOBAR — Julian Quinones has added a Ballon d’Or nomination to a remarkable year that saw him win the Roshn Saudi League Golden Boot and emerge as one of Mexico’s standout performers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Al Qadsiah striker is among 30 players shortlisted for football’s most prestigious individual award, recognition that follows a 33-goal league campaign and four goals for Mexico at the World Cup.
“I’m very proud to have achieved this,” Quinones said after scoring in Al Qadsiah’s 3-2 victory over Al Ahli on Tuesday. “I’ve worked hard for this moment and now it has happened.”
“God’s timing is always perfect. I just try to keep working hard, improving and being the best I can be.”
The nomination marks another milestone in the 29-year-old’s rise from prolific RSL forward to international star.
Quinones secured last season’s Golden Boot with a final-day hat-trick that took his tally to 33 goals, finishing ahead of Al Ahli striker Ivan Toney.
He carried that form into the World Cup, scoring the tournament’s opening goal for co-hosts Mexico before finishing with four goals as his country reached the last 16.
His performances have now earned him a place alongside some of the biggest names in world football on the Ballon d’Or shortlist.
Al Qadsiah manager Brendan Rodgers said the nomination reflected both Quinones’ individual achievements and the growing recognition of the Saudi league.
“Firstly, it’s absolutely amazing for Julian,” Rodgers said. “It recognises the impact he has had in the Saudi Pro League and the confidence that he takes from playing here into his international team.”
“It’s a huge credit for everyone: for him, for his teammates here and for the club as a whole. And, of course, it’s great recognition for the Pro League. So, it’s good for everyone.”
Quinones is joined on the shortlist by fellow RSL star Sadio Mane, who helped Al Nassr win the 2025-26 league title.
Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane, Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham are also among the nominees.
The winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or will be announced in London on Oct. 26.
For Quinones, the nomination is another sign of how far his career has progressed from Saudi league Golden Boot winner to World Cup goalscorer and now a contender for football’s highest individual honour.
Source: Saudi Gazette