News
Lionel Messi Makes History With 8th Ballon d’Or Win
(iexclusivenews) – Lionel Messi has once again proven why he is widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time by winning his eighth Ballon d’Or award.
The Argentine superstar beat the likes of Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Cristiano Ronaldo to claim the prestigious prize for the best male player of 2023.
A Glorious Year for Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi had a phenomenal year that saw him achieve glory with both club and country.
He led Argentina to their first World Cup title since 1986, scoring six goals and providing four assists in the tournament.
However, Messi was named the best player of the World Cup and received the Golden Ball award.
He also had a successful spell with Paris Saint-Germain, where he won the Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Champions League.
Lionel Messi scored 28 goals and assisted 15 more in all competitions for the French giants.
In July, he made a sensational move to Inter Miami, becoming the highest-paid player in MLS history.
He quickly adapted to his new surroundings and dazzled the fans with his skills and goals.
Messi scored 18 goals and assisted 12 more in 22 games for Inter Miami, helping them reach the playoffs.
A Record-Breaking Achievement
With his eighth Ballon d’Or, Messi has extended his lead as the most decorated player in the history of the award.
He has won four more than his closest rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, who has four.
Messi has also won more than any other player in a single decade, having won seven between 2010 and 2020.
Lionel Messi has also broken the record for the longest gap between two Ballon d’Or wins, having won his first one in 2009 and his eighth one in 2023.
He has also become the oldest player to win the award at 36 years old.
MORE NEWS:
How Lionel Messi Led Inter Miami to Their First Trophy in the Leagues Cup
Haaland in Position for Ballon d’Or after Man City Treble
Lionel Messi Inter Miami Debut: A Free-Kick Masterclass
A Deserving Winner
Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or is a testament to his consistency, longevity, and excellence.
He has shown that he can perform at the highest level in different leagues, teams, and continents.
Messi has also demonstrated his leadership, passion, and humility on and off the pitch.
Lionel Messi has inspired millions of fans around the world with his magical displays and his love for the game.
He has also contributed to various humanitarian causes and supported many charities.
Messi is a role model for aspiring footballers and a legend of the sport.
Bonmati Wins Ballon d’Or Feminin
In addition to Messi’s triumph, another Barcelona player has won a Ballon d’Or award.
Aitana Bonmati has been crowned as the best female player of 2023, beating the likes of Vivianne Miedema, Sam Kerr, and Alex Morgan.
Bonmati had a remarkable year that saw her win the treble with Barcelona, scoring 17 goals and assisting 14 more in all competitions.
She also led Spain to their first-ever Women’s World Cup title, scoring five goals and providing six assists in the tournament.
Bonmati was named the best player of the Women’s World Cup and received the Golden Ball award.
Aitana Bonmati is the second Barcelona player to win the Ballon d’Or Feminin after Lieke Martens in 2017.
She is also the second Spanish player to win it after Veronica Boquete in 2014.
Bonmati is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in women’s football and a key player for both club and country.
Congratulations to both Messi and Bonmati for their amazing achievements! They have made history with their Ballon d’Or wins and have shown why they are among the best players in the world.
