Argentina and Inter Miami forward, Lionel Messi, has clinched his eighth Men’s Ballon d’Or award, beating Erling Braut Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.
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| Argentina and Inter Miami forward, Lionel Messi, wins eighth Ballon d’Or in Paris, France on Monday 30 October, 2023. Photo: @10Ronaldinho |
Messi, 36, was recognized at the ceremony which took place in the city of Paris, France after helping his country, Argentina, win the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.
Jude Bellingham, England and Real Madrid midfielder, won the Kopa Trophy for the world’s best player aged under 21.
Messi said: “It’s nice to be here once more to enjoy this moment. To be able to win the World Cup and achieve my dream.
“I couldn’t imagine having the career I’ve had and everything I’ve achieved, the fortune I’ve had to be part of the best team in history.
“All of them [Ballon d’Or awards] are special for different reasons.”
Norway and Manchester City striker, Haaland, netted a record breaking 36 goals in 35 Premier League matches as well as scored a total of 52 in all competitions.
Haaland was very pivotal in helping Pep Guardiola’s City to clinch a treble last season (2022/23) – Premier League, Uefa Champions League and the FA Cup.
The Norwegian was recognised for his achievements with the Gerd Muller Trophy for best goalscorer.
Haaland said: “I want to thank Manchester City, the whole club.
“I also want to thank my family and all the people around me for making me who I am today.”
France forward, Mbappe, who emerged just the second footballer to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final, finished third.
France lost to Argentina in the World Cup 2022 final in Qatar in a penalty shoot-out 2-4 after a 3-3 draw.
