There are a few Argentine players that will ever reach the heights of Diego Maradona. However, Lionel Messi is one of the few players who can stand next to the national legend following his sensational performances. La Pulga bagged the 8th Ballon d’Or title tonight following a successful World Cup campaign. Cherishing the moment, the Argentine star took his time to remember Diego Maradona during his speech and paid tributes to the icon. 

Messi, following his big win, has made history as he became the first oldest player since 1956 to win the Ballon d’Or. England legend Sir Stanley Matthews set the record to become the oldest player to lift the Ballon d’Or in 1956, lifting the coveted title at 41. Yet, he remembered his national icon as the fans in attendance applauded the player. 

Lionel Messi pays tribute to Diego Maradona

Messi, following his World Cup triumph, had a massive weight lifted off his shoulders. The Argentine was often slammed for failing to achieve international success, unlike national icon Diego Maradona. However, La Pulga set the records straight as he bagged the World Cup title last year. To be in Maradona’s shadows for the best part of his career, he finally became sainted after the victory in Qatar. 

During his winning speech, Lionel Messi took his time as he paid an emotional tribute to Maradona. “Wherever you are, this is also for you. Happy birthday, Diego.”

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It was also a special tribute, as the Argentine legend would have celebrated his 63rd birthday yesterday. Maradona made invaluable contributions to La Albiceleste, helping them win the World Cup title in 1986. Messi has now followed in the footsteps of the Argentine great, lifting the same title 36 years later to etch his name in history.

When it comes to making history, Lionel Messi does not like to stay behind in the race for long. La Pulga bagged his 8th Ballon d’Or at 36, making him the oldest player to win the award since Sir Stanley Matthews’ win in 1956.

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La Pulga etches his name in history books

The Argentinian has undoubtedly aged as fine wine. Messi has continued to grow over the years, proving that age is a number. La Pulga surpassed Karim Benzema to become the oldest player in history to win the Ballon d’Or since 1956. Before Messi, former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema held the record as he lifted the title last year at the age of 34.

While the duo has an impressive record to their name, no player has come close to surpassing the record set by Sir Stanley Matthews in 1956. The English legend became the oldest player to lift the title in 1956 at 41 and has held this record to this date. The legendary Englishman made invaluable contributions to the game and was the first player to be officially knighted in 1956.

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