Lionel Messi’s unparalleled football legacy was further cemented as he secured his eighth Ballon d’Or award on Monday. The Argentine maestro stands alone as a truly incomparable force in the world of football…CONTINUE READING>>...CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
Earning the prestigious top position in the Ballon d’Or rankings, Messi displayed the unrivaled brilliance that has become synonymous with his name. The accolade wasn’t without its competition, with Erling Haaland of Manchester City taking second place and PSG’s Kylian Mbappé finishing third.
Notably, Messi’s triumph in the 2022 FIFA World Cup played a substantial role in clinching the 2023 Ballon d’Or. The Argentine superstar provided compelling evidence of why he deserves the title of the world’s best player.
In securing his eighth Ballon d’Or in a glittering ceremony in Paris, Messi achieved four remarkable new records in the realm of football, according to Opta data.
1. Oldest Player to Win the Ballon d’Or
At 36 years and 128 days, Messi became the oldest player ever to claim the world’s premier football accolade. While future football talents are bound to emerge, winning the Ballon d’Or at 36 may remain a remarkable and unlikely feat for years to come.
2. First Player to Win the Ballon d’Or Outside Europe’s Top-5 Leagues
Messi shattered conventions by receiving the Ballon d’Or while playing for Inter Miami in the United States. His achievement transcends the traditional dominance of players based in Europe’s top leagues.
3. First Player to Win the Ballon d’Or Award with Three Different Clubs
In an astonishing career journey, Messi secured the Ballon d’Or accolade with three different clubs. He won multiple awards during his time at Barcelona, claimed the title while with Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, and remarkably added the trophy to his collection while representing Inter Miami in 2023.
4. First Player Ever to Win Eight Ballon d’Or Awards
Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or represents an unmatched accomplishment. This remarkable feat firmly establishes him as the greatest footballer of all time.
The Ballon d’Or is revered as one of football’s most prestigious individual honors, and Messi’s eight victories stand as an unrivaled testament to his unparalleled talent and enduring legacy…CONTINUE READING>>
