The soccer fraternity finally has the winner of the 2023 Ballon d’Or. Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi has finally clinched his eighth prestigious award. After receiving the award with an enormous round of applause, the Inter Miami star extended his heartwarming support to Erling Haaland, who missed out on his first trophy.

Meanwhile, Messi has once again written his name in the history books as he won his record eighth award, becoming the second oldest player to win it. As for Haaland, his chance will come, according to the Argentine. 

Lionel Messi wins his eighth Ballon d’Or as he backs Erling Haaland

Soccer fans finally witnessed Lionel Messi clinch the Ballon d’Or. Sadly, Erling Haaland missed out on the chance to claim his first award. However, it was the World Cup winner who managed to increase his number to 8. Interestingly, while giving a speech, the 36-year-old took his time to extend his support to his rival, Haaland. It shows the humble nature of the Inter Miami star. 

Receiving his award from David Beckham, Messi stated, “Haaland had a historic season and won all the titles, and the awards will certainly come in the future.” Surprisingly, the Argentinian maestro flared his support for Haaland, insisting he still has time to win the grand prize. The former Barcelona man also acknowledged his collective and individual achievements.

Trending

Lionel Messi’s Heartwarming Gesture Toward Fan Earns Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian’s Seal of Approval

May 08, 2024 04:33 AM EDT

Wrexham’s Rival Fans’ ‘F**K Their Documentary’ Remark Receives Unexpected Response From Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney

May 12, 2024 12:30 PM EDT

“In England, People Always Try To See the Negative”- Wrexham Star Takes Dig at English Press 

May 13, 2024 07:22 PM EDT

Jaedyn Shaw Injury Update- Massive Setback for San Diego Waves & Emma Hayes Before Paris Olympics 2024

May 13, 2024 11:30 AM EDT

24 Year-Old Star Admits ‘Not Liking’ Cristiano Ronaldo Before Watching Him With Al Nassr & Portugal

May 13, 2024 01:00 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest Soccer stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Indeed, these are some heartfelt words from La Pulga. Certainly, the game recognizes the game, and Messi has also instilled his faith in Haaland to lift the award someday. However, coming back to Messi’s achievement, the former Barcelona star has created history by not only becoming the first player to win eight Ballon d’Ors but also the first MLS player to do so.

Jude Bellingham Wins 2023 Kopa Trophy at Ballon d’Or Ceremony in Paris

Certainly, his ardent followers must be delighted to see their GOAT add yet another accolade to his collection. Meanwhile, let’s talk about other stars who went home with a trophy.

The major winners at the 2023 Ballon d’Or

While Messi lifted the Ballon d’Or in the men’s category, Barcelona and Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmati won the Ballon d’Or Feminin. Although Haaland missed the award he was eyeing, he won the Gerd Muller Award for his goal-scoring prowess. Additionally, Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham won the Kopa Trophy.

Bellingham’s teammate Vinicius Jr. won the Socrates Award for his work against racism and education programs. Messi’s Argentinian teammate, Elimiano Martinez, won the Lev Yashin Trophy for his goalkeeping antics. Furthermore, Manchester City won the Club of the Year, while FC Barcelona Femení won the Women’s Club of the Year. Indeed, it was quite a busy night in France.

Watch this story: LeBron James, James Harden, Trae Young, and Other NBA Stars Give Lionel Messi His Flowers After Argentina’s FIFA World Cup Win