Lionel Messi has apparently already been named Ballon d’Or 2023 winner. As a result, he achieved another record by winning 8 of the coveted trophy. He beat the likes of Erling Haaland and Kylain Mbappe to win the record 8th golden ball. Messi is expected to get the most coveted individual award at a lavish event sponsored by France Football in Paris.
The Argentine great already owns seven Golden Balls, more than any other player in history. He is now expected to be regarded as the world’s finest player once more, after leading his side to World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022.
Messi, 36, earned the pinnacle of his legendary career last year as he guided Argentina to World Cup triumph. The former Barcelona and PSG superstar then joined Inter Miami in July and quickly lit up the MLS with a succession of spectacular displays.
With Messi’s victory, the Ballon d’Or 2023 will be awarded to someone who plays outside of Europe for the first time in history. This puts him three ahead of his long-time adversary Cristiano Ronaldo. The 36-year-old was up against Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and ex-PSG teammate Kylian Mbappe. However he is certain to win owing to his exploits in Qatar.
Haaland led City to the Premier League title last season, scoring 52 goals in 53 games. Mbappe, meanwhile, scored a memorable hat-trick against Messi’s Argentina in the World Cup final. He even played well during PSG’s disappointing season.
Messi may be the most decorated footballer in history, but he believes the Ballon d’Or has never held any “importance” for him. Another World Cup victory is on the way in the women’s game. Aitana Bonmati won the Ballon d’Or Feminin after playing for Spain and Barcelona.
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