Argentinian maestro Lionel Messi has secured a record eighth Ballon d’Or, surpassing Erling Haaland of Manchester City and earning a distinguished position as the world’s top player. In this article, we delve into the significance of this victory.
A Remarkable Achievement
Lionel Messi, who most recently won the Ballon d’Or in 2021, has once again clinched this prestigious accolade. His standout performance was instrumental in Argentina’s World Cup victory, a feat that had eluded the country for 36 years. Messi’s triumph extends his lead over Cristiano Ronaldo, his closest rival, with five trophies to his name, the last of which was awarded in 2017. This victory marks his 14th appearance in the top three and his sixth win, further solidifying his legacy.
Reflecting on the Victory
In response to this achievement, Lionel Messi expressed his gratitude for his remarkable career and the successes he has enjoyed. He emphasized the honor of playing for what he considers to be the best team in history, acknowledging the importance of individual awards while celebrating his contributions to the national team’s victories. He described the Ballon d’Or awards as special for various reasons and shared his excitement for achieving recognition through his team’s accomplishments.
On Future Plans
When asked about his future and the possibility of competing in the 2026 World Cup, Messi remained focused on the present. He emphasized enjoying his career day by day, hinting at potential involvement in the 2024 Copa America in the United States. As for the 2026 World Cup, he stated that it is not something he is currently contemplating.
Recognitions and Awards
In addition to Messi’s remarkable achievement, his fellow World Cup-winning teammate, Emiliano Martinez, received the Lev Yashin award for the world’s best goalkeeper. The Women’s Ballon d’Or was secured by Spain’s Aitana Bonmati, a Women’s World Cup champion and Barcelona midfielder. Moreover, Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham earned the Kopa Trophy for the best Under-21 player, while his teammate Vinicius Jr. was recognized with the Socrates Award for his humanitarian efforts off the field.
