Messi Clinches Eighth Ballon d'Or Victory, Surpassing Haaland in 2023

36-year-old Lionel Messi, star player for Inter Miami CF, has made history by winning the Ballon d'Or for a record eighth time. He beat out Manchester City's Erling Haaland for the prestigious award, thanks in part to his leadership in leading Argentina to victory in the World Cup last year. The award was presented to Messi by David Beckham, former Manchester United player and co-owner of Inter Miami. This is the first time an MLS-based player has won the Ballon d'Or.

LIONEL MESSI IS THE 2023 MEN’S BALLON D’OR!

Eight Ballon d’Or for Argentina hero! #ballondor pic.twitter.com/1slOJ6EoKj

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— Ballon d'Or #ballondor (@ballondor) October 30, 2023

After City's triumphant Treble season in 2022-23, Haaland, with an impressive 52 goals, came in second place in the voting and walked away with the Gerd Muller Trophy, which honors the top striker of the year.

Reflecting on his award, Messi expressed his disbelief at the incredible career he has had, stating, "I could never have imagined achieving what I have. The privilege of playing for the greatest team in the world, the greatest team in history, has brought me immense fortune. Winning these individual accolades is truly gratifying."

He went on to highlight the extraordinary feat of winning both the Copa America and the World Cup, emphasizing the magnitude of these achievements. Messi concluded by acknowledging the significance of each Ballon d'Or award he has received, recognizing their unique value and importance.

Before Messi was presented with his award, Aitana Bonmatí, the Barcelona and Spain midfielder, was honored with the Ballon d'Or Féminin. Bonmatí had a remarkable year, contributing to Barcelona's triumph in Liga F and the Champions League, followed by leading Spain to victory in the World Cup.

Other awards distributed on Monday included Emiliano Martinez, Messi's Argentine teammate, who received the Yashin Trophy for being the best goalkeeper. Additionally, Jude Bellingham, the English and Real Madrid midfielder, was presented with the Kopa Trophy as the world's outstanding player under the age of 21.

During his acceptance speech, Messi took a moment to wish his fellow Argentine, Diego Maradona, a happy birthday. Maradona, the legendary footballer and 1986 World Cup winner, passed away on November 22, 2020, but would have turned 63 on that day.

Messi expressed his thoughts, stating, "I would like to dedicate a special mention to Diego [Maradona] on his birthday. Today, surrounded by the best players, coaches, and football enthusiasts, I want to remember him, just as he loved the sport."

He continued, "Wherever you are, Diego, happy birthday. This is for you too."

Even before the ceremony in Paris, Messi had already surpassed all players in Ballon d'Or victories. He had previously won the prestigious award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.

Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for winning the Ballon d'Or five times, with Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten closely following as three-time winners.

Last season, Messi showcased his skills by scoring 21 goals in 41 appearances as Paris Saint-Germain secured the Ligue 1 title. He then made a move to Inter Miami earlier this year.

Since joining the U.S. team, Messi has been in excellent form, netting 11 goals in 14 games and contributing to Miami's historic victory in the Leagues Cup.

However, towards the end of the regular MLS season, Messi suffered from injuries, causing him to miss several matches. Despite his absence, Gerardo "Tata" Martino's team fell short in their late push for a playoff spot.

Nonetheless, it was Messi's outstanding performances during the 2022 World Cup that ultimately earned him his eighth Ballon d'Or. As Argentina's captain, he played a pivotal role in their triumph in Qatar, scoring seven goals and providing three assists. His exceptional contributions led to him being recognized as the Player of the Tournament.

In a thrilling World Cup final against France, Lionel Messi scored two crucial goals and converted a penalty in the shootout, leading Argentina to a hard-fought victory. The match was regarded as one of the most memorable in the tournament's history.

After falling short in four previous World Cup attempts, including a loss in the 2014 final against Germany, many believed this was Messi's final opportunity to claim football's ultimate prize.

At the age of 36 years and four months, Messi now becomes the second oldest player to ever win the Ballon d'Or, surpassing last year's recipient, Karim Benzema. The only player to win the award at an older age was Stanley Matthews, who was 41 when he won the inaugural Ballon d'Or in 1956.

Messi's first six Ballon d'Or triumphs came during his tenure at Barcelona, where he established himself as the club's all-time leading goal scorer and appearance holder. He secured his seventh Ballon d'Or shortly after joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, following his success in winning the Copa America with Argentina.

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