Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami CF star, has secured his eighth Ballon d’Or award for the yr 2023.
This achievement comes following his efficiency in main Argentina to World Cup victory the earlier yr, solidifying his standing as one of many biggest footballers of all time.
On the age of 36, Messi has set a brand new document as the primary MLS-based participant to assert this award. The vast majority of his contribution got here from his efficiency with the Argentine nationwide crew throughout the World Cup in Qatar.
Erling Haaland, the prolific Manchester Metropolis striker who scored 52 objectives within the 2022-23 season, completed because the runner-up within the Ballon d’Or voting.
Haaland was additionally honoured with the Gerd Müller Trophy, recognizing him as the most effective striker of the yr.
Reflecting on his illustrious profession, Messi humbly expressed, “I couldn’t think about having the profession that I’ve had. The whole lot that I’ve achieved, the fortune I’ve had taking part in for the most effective crew on the earth, the most effective crew in historical past. It’s good to win these particular person trophies. To win the Copa America after which the World Cup, to get it executed is superb. All of them [Ballon d’Or awards] are particular for various causes.”
Throughout his acceptance speech, Messi took a second to recollect his fellow countryman, the legendary Diego Maradona, whose birthday fell on the identical day.
He fondly remarked, “My final point out is for Diego [Maradona]. In the present day is his birthday. So I wish to keep in mind him from right here, surrounded by the most effective gamers, coaches, and individuals who love soccer like he did. Wherever you’re, Diego, pleased birthday. This goes additionally to you.”
Even earlier than the 2023 ceremony, no participant had managed to win the Ballon d’Or extra occasions than Messi, who beforehand clinched the award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.
In distinction, Cristiano Ronaldo has gained the award 5 occasions, whereas Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten have every secured it thrice.
Messi’s efficiency throughout the earlier season included scoring 21 objectives in 41 appearances as Paris Saint-Germain retained their Ligue 1 title.
He subsequently transferred to Inter Miami earlier within the yr, the place he has already made an affect, scoring 11 objectives in 14 video games and serving to the franchise safe its first-ever Leagues Cup.
Regardless of a couple of damage setbacks towards the tip of the MLS season, Messi’s efficiency on the 2022 World Cup was the explanation behind his eighth Ballon d’Or win. Haaland additionally honoured with Gerd Müller Trophy, recognizing him as greatest striker of yr. As captain of the Argentine nationwide crew, he performed a pivotal position of their triumph in Qatar, scoring seven objectives and offering three assists, incomes him the Participant of the Event title.
His two objectives within the ultimate and his contribution throughout the penalty shoot-out towards France had been highlights of this unforgettable World Cup.