Former Barcelona legend and current Inter Miami CF star, Lionel Messi, has clinched the Ballon d’Or for an astounding eighth time, establishing an unprecedented record. His remarkable achievement comes in the face of fierce competition from Manchester City’s prolific striker, Erling Haaland, following Messi’s pivotal role in leading Argentina to World Cup glory last year.
Aged 36, Messi has achieved a historic feat, marking the first time a Major League Soccer (MLS)-based player has laid claim to the prestigious Ballon d’Or. It’s worth noting that his triumph is largely attributed to his outstanding performances with the Argentine national team in Qatar. The iconic trophy was presented to him in Paris by former Manchester United player and Inter Miami co-owner, David Beckham.
Haaland, who notched an impressive 52 goals in the previous season as Manchester City secured a treble in 2022-23, secured a commendable second place in the Ballon d’Or rankings. Furthermore, he was awarded the Gerd Muller Trophy, recognizing him as the year’s finest striker.
The gala also witnessed other distinguished awards. Messi’s compatriot and teammate, Emiliano Martinez, was honored with the Yashin Trophy for being the best goalkeeper, while England and Real Madrid’s young midfielder, Jude Bellingham, received the Kopa Trophy, designating him as the world’s top player under the age of 21.
Lionel Messi’s legacy continues to grow, as he now holds a record number of Ballon d’Or wins, having previously claimed the prestigious title in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021. Cristiano Ronaldo closely follows with five victories, while Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten each have three to their name.
In the previous season, Messi netted 21 goals in 41 appearances, contributing significantly to Paris Saint-Germain’s successful defense of the Ligue 1 title. Following his move to Inter Miami earlier this year, he has continued to dazzle, tallying 11 goals in just 14 games and aiding the franchise in securing its first-ever silverware, the Leagues Cup.
At 36 years and four months old, Messi now ranks as the second-oldest player to have ever clinched the Ballon d’Or, surpassing last year’s recipient, Karim Benzema. Only the inaugural Ballon d’Or laureate, Stanley Matthews in 1956, received the honor at an older age, being 41 at the time.
Remarkably, Messi’s first six Ballons d’Or were garnered during his illustrious career at Barcelona, where he remains the club’s all-time leading goal scorer and appearance record holder. His seventh win occurred shortly after his transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, following his triumph with Argentina in the Copa America.