Lionel Messi conveyed that winning his eighth Ballon d’Or in the wake of Argentina’s World Cup victory was the fulfillment of a dream he had cherished throughout his life. In a year where stiff competition came from the likes of Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe, Messi once again emerged victorious to secure the prestigious 2023 Ballon d’Or.
“When I won the previous time, it was also linked to our achievements with the Argentine national team in the Copa America of 2021. Nonetheless, this particular Ballon d’Or holds even more weight, given that it comes after our World Cup victory,” Lionel shared with journalists while accepting the award in a Paris ceremony on Monday.
“It’s the trophy that every player covets the most, and it’s a dream fulfilled, not just for me but for my teammates and the entire nation.”
Lionel Messi made another history
No player has amassed more than five Ballon d’Or awards, with Cristiano Ronaldo having five and Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten each clinching the prestigious honor three times.
Follow Sports 360 Degrees on Facebook and stay connected!
Following his transfer to Inter Miami in the United States, Lionel has wasted no time in adding to his collection of trophies, leading the team to victory in the US League Cup.
Lionel’s recent triumph signifies the first instance of a Major League Soccer-based player receiving such recognition. The award was presented to Messi by former Manchester United legend David Beckham.
“I’m incredibly pleased with the decisions I’ve made and with my choice to join Miami,” the Argentina legend remarked.
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has enjoyed a career filled with unprecedented success. From his early days at Barcelona to his more recent exploits at Paris Saint-Germain, Messi’s consistently remarkable performances have left fans and pundits alike in awe.
The 2023 Ballon d’Or is a testament to his enduring influence on the pitch. Despite facing fierce competition from Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe, two of the sport’s most promising young talents, Messi’s skill and consistency were undeniable.
Erling Haaland, the prolific Norwegian striker, has been setting the football world alight with his goal-scoring prowess. His lethal finishing and physicality have made him one of the most sought-after players in the world. Likewise, Kylian Mbappe, the French sensation, has thrilled fans with his electric pace and incredible skills. Both players have achieved remarkable success at such a young age, making them worthy contenders for the Ballon d’Or.
However, it was Messi’s enduring impact and undeniable footballing genius that proved decisive in the eyes of the voters. His ability to influence matches, create opportunities, and consistently deliver stunning performances is unmatched. Messi’s work ethic and dedication to his craft have been the cornerstones of his illustrious career, and they continue to propel him to new heights.
The 2023 Ballon d’Or victory is Messi’s eighth, a record that firmly cements his legacy in the annals of football history. It reminds us that, even as the years pass, Messi remains the player to beat, the standard by which all others are measured.
As the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony ended, Messi stood tall as the footballing world celebrated his unparalleled excellence. While Haaland and Mbappe undoubtedly have bright futures ahead of them, they, like the rest of the footballing world, will continue to marvel at the magic of Lionel Messi, a true living legend.
ALSO READ:
- “Haaland, Foden Shine as Man City Thrashes Man Utd 3-0
- Is Messi looking to revive the rivalry with Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia?
- Ronaldo’s victory secures Portugal’s Euro 2024 spot
