Lionel Messi, currently affiliated with Inter Miami CF, has clinched the Ballon d’Or for the eighth time, setting a new record. This accomplishment follows his instrumental role in leading Argentina to a World Cup victory last year, making him the first MLS-based player to achieve this esteemed accolade. The honor was presented to Messi by David Beckham, former Manchester United player and co-owner of Inter Miami, in Paris.
Erling Haaland, who impressively scored 52 goals during the 2022-23 season as Manchester City secured the Treble, secured the second spot in the Ballon d’Or ranking and was recognized with the Gerd Muller Trophy for the best striker of the year.
In reflecting on his achievement, Messi stated, “I couldn’t have imagined the career I’ve had, all that I’ve accomplished. The privilege of playing for the best team in the world, the best team in history. It’s truly gratifying to win these individual awards. Winning the Copa America and then the World Cup is simply amazing. Each Ballon d’Or holds a special place for different reasons.”
Prior to Messi receiving his award, Aitana Bonmatí, the midfielder for Barcelona and Spain, was honored with the Ballon d’Or Féminin. She had an exceptional year, contributing to Barcelona’s victories in Liga F and the Champions League, followed by leading Spain to World Cup triumph.
Other awards presented during the event included Emiliano Martinez, Messi’s Argentine teammate, who received the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper, and England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham, who was recognized with the Kopa Trophy as the world’s top player under the age of 21.
In his acceptance speech, Messi took a moment to remember his compatriot Diego Maradona, who would have turned 63 on that very day. Diego Maradona, the 1986 World Cup champion, passed away on November 22, 2020.
Messi paid tribute, saying, “I’d like to dedicate my last words to Diego [Maradona]. Today is his birthday, and I want to remember him here, surrounded by the best players, coaches, and those who share the same passion for football, just as he did. Wherever you are, Diego, happy birthday. This is for you too.”
Even before the ceremony, no player had surpassed Messi’s record of winning the Ballon d’Or. He first claimed the award in 2009 and secured it again in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021. Cristiano Ronaldo, with five wins, remains the closest contender, while Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten have each secured the award three times.
In the previous season, Messi scored 21 goals in 41 appearances, helping Paris Saint-Germain retain their Ligue 1 title before his move to Inter Miami earlier this year. Since joining the U.S. club, he has contributed 11 goals in 14 games, playing a crucial role in securing the franchise’s first-ever silverware, the Leagues Cup.
However, Messi did miss several matches due to injury towards the end of the regular MLS season, affecting Miami’s push for a playoff spot. It was Messi’s outstanding performance in the 2022 World Cup that earned him his eighth Ballon d’Or. Argentina ended a 36-year drought by securing their third World Cup title, with Messi, as the team’s captain, playing a pivotal role by scoring seven goals and providing three assists. This achievement earned him the title of Player of the Tournament, including scoring twice in the final, including a crucial goal in the penalty shootout against France.
After falling short with Argentina in four previous World Cups, including the 2014 final loss to Germany, many believed that this World Cup was Messi’s last chance to secure football’s most coveted prize. At the age of 36 years and four months, he becomes the second-oldest player to win the Ballon d’Or, surpassing last year’s winner, Karim Benzema. The only player to have achieved this honor at an older age was Stanley Matthews in 1956, at the age of 41.
Messi’s first six Ballons d’Or were won during his time at Barcelona, where he holds the record for the club’s top goalscorer and appearance holder. He secured his seventh Ballon d’Or shortly after joining PSG in 2021, following Argentina’s success in the Copa America.
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