Argentina and Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi won the Men’s Ballon d’Or for the eighth time during the ceremony held on Monday, October 30.
The 36-year-old critical performance that helped Argentina win the World in Qatar last year catapulted him to win the Ballon d’Or.
Messi won his record-extending Ballon d’Or award ahead of Manchester City forward Erling Haaland.
France forward Kylian Mbappe – who became just the second man to score a World Cup final hat-trick in the 4-2 penalty shootout loss to Argentina – finished third.
“It’s nice to be here once more to enjoy this moment,” Messi said. “To be able to win the World Cup and achieve my dream.”
The former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain star added: “I couldn’t imagine having the career I’ve had and everything I’ve achieved, the fortune I’ve had to be part of the best team in history.
“All of them [Ballon d’Or awards] are special for different reasons.”
Haaland
Norway international Haaland scored a record-breaking 36 goals in 35 league games and hit 52 in all competitions as City won the Treble of the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup.
He was recognized for his achievements with the Gerd Muller Trophy for best goalscorer.
“I want to thank Manchester City, the whole club,” said Haaland.
“I also want to thank my family and all the people around me for making me who I am today.”
Bellingham
England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham won the Kopa Trophy for the world’s best player aged under 21.
Martinez recognised as the world’s best goalkeeper
Argentina World Cup winner and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez won the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper in the world.
Martinez won the Golden Glove in Qatar, saving a spot-kick from Kingsley Coman in the penalty shootout win against France in the final.
He also helped Aston Villa finish seventh in the Premier League and secure a place in the Europa Conference League.
Manchester City win Club of the Year award
Manchester City was named the club of the year at the awards for the second year running.
Pep Guardiola’s side became only the second English team to win the Treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup last season.
They had seven players shortlisted for the men’s Ballon d’Or award.
Vinicius Jr recognized
Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr received the Socrates Award for his contribution off the field and vowed to keep speaking out against racism in world football.
Vinicius has been the target of racist abuse regularly in La Liga games for the past two seasons.
He was recognized for starting a foundation that is building schools in impoverished areas and investing in education in Brazil.
