Lionel Messi secured his eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023, breaking records once again after beating off competition from Manchester City’s Erling Halaand, who came second at this year’s award.
Messi led Argentina to a historic World Cup victory in Qatar, ending his nation’s 36-year wait for the prestigious silverware.
He won the award after a remarkable season, scoring 21 goals and providing 20 assists in 41 matches for PSG.
The 36-year-old’s World Cup performance was exceptional, with key goals against Australia, the Netherlands, and Croatia, finishing second in the tournament’s top goalscorer charts.
In an emotional speech, Messi thanked his national team and celebrated their World Cup triumph. He also wished Diego Maradona a happy birthday.
After leaving PSG, Messi joined Inter Miami in MLS, making him one of the rare nominees who don’t currently play in Europe.
This marks Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or win after winning his first in 2009 at the age of 22, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
