Xtra Time Web Desk: Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, secured his record eighth Ballon d’Or, solidifying his status as the world’s best player. The talisman pipped Norway and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland for the title on Monday night. Haaland was favourite to win the title after claiming
UEFA Player of the Year award and achieved a treble with Manchester City, in addition to receiving the Gerd Muller Trophy for becoming Europe’s top scorer last season with 56 goals.
Messi, now playing for Inter Miami, last received the Ballon d’Or in 2021, and his pivotal role in leading Argentina to their first World Cup victory in 36 years, where they defeated defending champions France in the final, greatly contributed to his winning the Ballon d’Or. This win places the 36-year-old icon three Ballons d’Or ahead of his rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, who won his fifth trophy in 2017. Messi has an impressive record of finishing in the top three a total of 14 times, being the runner-up on five occasions.
Upon receiving the award, Messi expressed his gratitude and reflected on his remarkable career, emphasizing the significance of playing for the best team in history. He also acknowledged the importance of his recent triumphs in the Copa America and the World Cup.
In addition to Messi’s achievement, his World Cup-winning teammate, Emiliano Martinez, received the Lev Yashin Award for the world’s best goalkeeper, while Aitana Bonmati, a Spanish Women’s World Cup winner and Barcelona midfielder, claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or.
Despite Haaland’s outstanding performance with 52 goals in 53 matches across all competitions, Messi’s magical run at the World Cup in Qatar, where he earned the Golden Ball and Silver Boot, ultimately secured his latest Ballon d’Or victory.