In a moment of footballing history, Inter Miami CF’s star and Argentine icon, Lionel Messi, has clinched his eighth Ballon d’Or award, setting a record that may stand for generations. This remarkable achievement follows his pivotal role in leading Argentina to World Cup glory last year. Despite fierce competition from Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, Messi emerged victorious, marking his legacy with yet another pinnacle.
Messi’s Remarkable Career
Messi, now 36 years old, has graced the football world with his exceptional talent for over two decades. His illustrious career started at Barcelona, where he became the club’s all-time leading goalscorer and appearance holder. The Little Magician claimed his first Ballon d’Or title in 2009, and his brilliance continued to shine as he added more to his collection in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.
A Unique Triumph: MLS-Based Player Wins Ballon d’Or
The 2023 Ballon d’Or marks a unique turning point in the history of the award. Messi’s recent move to Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami CF makes him the first-ever MLS-based player to claim the prestigious Ballon d’Or. Despite the MLS focus, this triumph is predominantly attributed to his heroic exploits with the Argentine national team in the 2022 World Cup.
Haaland’s Outstanding Season
Erling Haaland, the prolific Manchester City striker, finished in second place in the Ballon d’Or rankings. His exceptional performance in the 2022-23 season saw him score a staggering 52 goals, contributing significantly to Manchester City’s Treble victory. Haaland’s prowess as a striker was acknowledged with the Gerd Muller Trophy, awarded to the best striker of the year.
A Grateful Messi Reflects on His Career
Following the award ceremony in Paris, a humble and grateful Messi expressed his emotions, saying, “I couldn’t imagine having the career that I’ve had. Everything that I’ve achieved.” He went on to emphasize his good fortune in playing for some of the best teams in the world. Messi’s eyes glittered with pride as he held the Ballon d’Or, which he has now won eight times. “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.”
Aitana Bonmatí Triumphs in Ballon d’Or Féminin
The Ballon d’Or Féminin found a deserving recipient in Aitana Bonmatí, the skilled midfielder from Barcelona and Spain. Aitana’s remarkable year featured leading Barcelona to victory in Liga F and the Champions League, followed by captaining Spain to World Cup glory during the summer. Her extraordinary contributions in both club and international football were rightfully recognized.
Other Honors at the Gala
The 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony also honored other distinguished individuals in the football world. Messi’s compatriot, Emiliano Martinez, was awarded the Yashin Trophy, recognizing him as the best goalkeeper of the year. England’s rising star, Jude Bellingham, received the Kopa Trophy for being the world’s top player under the age of 21.
Messi’s Dominance in Ballon d’Or History
Lionel Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or title cements his position as the most decorated player in the award’s history. No other player has ever won it as many times as Messi. His journey of Ballon d’Or victories began in 2009, and since then, he has consistently showcased his footballing genius. Cristiano Ronaldo, one of Messi’s long-time rivals, has secured the prestigious accolade five times, while football legends like Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten have each won it three times.
Messi’s Journey to MLS and Success with Inter Miami
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain following a successful tenure, Messi joined Inter Miami CF earlier this year. Since his arrival in the United States, he has continued to demonstrate his prowess on the pitch. Scoring 11 goals in just 14 games for Miami, Messi played a vital role in helping the franchise secure its first-ever piece of silverware, the Leagues Cup. Despite some injuries that caused him to miss several matches during the late stages of the regular MLS season, Messi’s impact on his new team was undeniable.
The World Cup Triumph that Sealed the Eighth Ballon d’Or
It was Messi’s exceptional performance at the 2022 World Cup that ultimately sealed his eighth Ballon d’Or victory. As captain of the Argentine national team, Messi played a pivotal role in ending a 36-year drought as Argentina was crowned world champions for the third time. In the tournament, he scored seven goals and provided three crucial assists, earning him the title of Player of the Tournament. His crowning moment was in the final, where he netted twice and also played a crucial role in the penalty shootout against France, resulting in Argentina’s victory in one of the most memorable World Cup finals in history.
A Historic Victory and a Late-Career Achievement
Messi’s World Cup triumph at the age of 36 years and four months adds another layer of historical significance to his Ballon d’Or win. He now stands as the second oldest player to ever secure the prestigious award, surpassing last year’s winner, Karim Benzema. Only Stanley Matthews, the inaugural Ballon d’Or recipient in 1956, was older when he claimed the title at the age of 41.
Lionel Messi’s record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or victory is a testament to his unwavering commitment, unparalleled talent, and everlasting legacy in the world of football. As the Argentine maestro continues to shine in the MLS with Inter Miami, his name will forever be etched in the annals of football history. With Haaland’s fierce competition and Messi’s remarkable journey, the 2023 Ballon d’Or has once again proven to be a celebration of football’s greatest talents and their extraordinary achievements.
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