Lionel Messi, the star of Inter Miami CF, has clinched his record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or, successfully fending off competition from Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. This latest win is a direct result of his exceptional performance in leading Argentina to victory in the World Cup last year.
Messi, now 36, becomes the first-ever MLS-based player to secure this prestigious award, with his achievement primarily attributed to his exceptional contributions on the international stage in Qatar. The Ballon d’Or trophy was handed to him by former Manchester United player and Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham during the award ceremony held in Paris.
Haaland, who had a stellar season with 52 goals as Manchester City won the Treble in 2022-2023, finished as the runner-up in the voting and was honored with the Gerd Muller Trophy, presented to the best striker of the year.
Reflecting on his win, Messi expressed, “I couldn’t imagine having the career that I’ve had. Everything that I’ve achieved. The fortune I’ve had playing for the best team in the world, the best team in history. It’s nice to win these individual trophies.”
“To win the Copa America and then the World Cup, to get it done is amazing. All of them [Ballon d’Or awards] are special for different reasons,” he added.
Prior to Messi’s reception of the award, Aitana Bonmatí, the Barcelona and Spain midfielder, was honored with the Ballon d’Or Féminin. She had a record-breaking year with both her club and country, contributing to Barcelona’s triumph in Liga F and the Champions League last season before leading Spain to World Cup glory during the summer.
Additional accolades presented during the ceremony included Emiliano Martinez, Messi’s compatriot, winning the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper, and Jude Bellingham, the England and Real Madrid midfielder, receiving the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the world’s top player under the age of 21.
In his acceptance speech, Messi extended his warm wishes to Diego Maradona, his fellow countryman. On what would have been Maradona’s 63rd birthday, Messi paid tribute, saying, “My last mention is for Diego [Maradona]. Today is his birthday. So I would like to remember him from here, surrounded by the best players, coaches, and people who love football like he did.”
“Wherever you are, Diego, happy birthday. This goes also to you.”
Even before Monday’s event in Paris, Messi had already set a remarkable record, holding the most Ballon d’Or victories in history. His previous wins came in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.
