Every Indian Super League (ISL) season, we witness players who consistently rise to the occasion and elevate their game to another level. While football is a team sport, these individuals serve as a strong reminder that individual quality can also make a significant difference at the top level.

For those unfamiliar with the ISL Golden Ball, it is awarded to the Hero of the League, recognizing the player who dazzled the league with their exceptional contributions.

While foreign players have largely dominated the winners' list in the league since inception, Indian players have also left their mark in recent seasons.

Let's delve into the illustrious winners of the Golden Ball from past ISL seasons ahead of the 2024-25 season.

2014 - Iain Hume (Kerala Blasters FC)

Canadian forward Iain Hume was the inaugural Golden Ball winner in 2014, scoring five goals and providing three assists. Besides his goal threat, Hume's relentless work ethic and proficiency in set pieces were pivotal for Kerala Blasters FC, leading them to the playoffs. Although they finished as runners-up, Hume was one of the best players not only for the Blasters, but also in the league.

2015 - Stiven Mendoza (Chennaiyin FC)

Colombian forward Stiven Mendoza took the league by storm in 2015, netting 11 goals and assisting twice. His exceptional speed, skill, and attacking qualities were crucial for Chennaiyin FC all season. He also netted an injury-time winner, helping the team complete an incredible comeback against FC Goa in the final and secure their first-ever ISL Cup. Besides winning the Golden Ball, he also took home the Golden Boot award.

2016 - Florent Malouda (Delhi Dynamos)

Former Chelsea star Florent Malouda was the standout player of the 2016 season. Scoring and assisting thrice, the French international's quality and experience were invaluable for Delhi Dynamos FC. Despite finishing third, they were eliminated in the semi-finals by Kerala Blasters FC.

2017/18 - Sunil Chhetri (Bengaluru FC)

Bengaluru FC's Sunil Chhetri was the first Indian player to win the Golden Ball accolade. The former Indian captain scored 10 goals in the league stage and added four more in the playoffs during the ISL 2017-18 season. His partnership with Miku tormented defences as Bengaluru FC netted the second highest goals in the league. Although Bengaluru FC topped the points table, they lost the final to Chennaiyin FC.

2018/19 - Ferran Corominas (FC Goa)

Spanish striker Ferran Corominas dominated the 2018-19 season with 16 goals and seven assists. His remarkable scoring ability led FC Goa to a runners-up finish where they narrowly lost the ISL Cup to Bengaluru FC. Corominas was not only FC Goa’s top scorer that season but also supplied the most assists within his team.

2019/20 - Hugo Boumous (FC Goa)

Hugo Boumous was instrumental in FC Goa's success during the 2019/20 season where they became the first team to win the League Shield. Scoring 11 goals and providing 10 assists, Boumous showcased his goal-scoring and playmaking skills. He became the first player to record more than 10 contributions in both categories in the same season. Although FC Goa topped the points table, they were denied a final spot by Chennaiyin FC.

2020/21 - Roy Krishna (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Despite Mohun Bagan SG missing out on the League Shield and ISL Cup to Mumbai City FC narrowly, they had a successful season and Krishna played a big role. He proved to be a match winner for the side on many occasions, registering 14 goals and eight assists in 23 matches that he featured.

2021/22 - Greg Stewart (Jamshedpur FC)

Scotsman Greg Stewart delivered one of the most memorable individual campaigns in ISL history during the 2021/22 season. Contributing 10 goals and 10 assists, Stewart was the driving force behind Jamshedpur FC's League Winners’ Shield triumph, the first silverware in the club’s history. His all-around performance in his debut ISL season made him a deserving Golden Ball recipient.

2022/23 - Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)

Lallianzuala Chhangte became the second Indian player to win the Golden Ball in the ISL 2022-23 season. The skillful winger contributed significantly to Mumbai City FC's League Shield success with 16 goal contributions, including 10 goals. He was the only Indian player to score 10 goals or more that campaign. Chhangte's remarkable season earned him the AIFF Men's Player of the Year award and solidified his status as one of India's top talents.

2023/24 - Dimitri Petratos (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Australian forward Dimitri Petratos excelled in the 2023/24 season, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists. His performances were pivotal for Mohun Bagan SG as they secured their second silverware in as many seasons. Although they lost the ISL Cup to Mumbai City FC, he helped them win the ISL Shield against the same opponents, where he contributed two assists in the Shield decider.