Posted on: October 31, 2023, 03:52h.
Last updated on: October 31, 2023, 03:52h.
Lionel Messi secures his eighth Ballon d’Or, proving oddsmakers right as he was listed as the clear favorite. Messi’s latest achievement further solidifies his status as the greatest soccer player of all time.
In his final year of eligibility due to his move to Inter Miami in the MLS, Messi continues to leave his mark in soccer history. While he can no longer be nominated for the Ballon d’Or in the future, Messi’s legacy is already firmly established.
Cristiano Ronaldo, with five Ballon d’Or wins, is Messi’s closest competitor. However, it is virtually impossible for him to catch up, especially if he plans on retiring in 2026.
The Unstoppable Messi
The awards ceremony took place on Monday night at the historic Theatre du Chatelet in Paris. Messi was presented with the trophy by his Inter Miami co-owner and former English soccer star, David Beckham.
LIONEL MESSI IS THE 2023 MEN’S BALLON D’OR!
Eight Ballon d’Or for Argentina hero! 🖐🤟#ballondor pic.twitter.com/1slOJ6EoKj
— Ballon d’Or #ballondor (@ballondor) October 30, 2023
Messi’s Ballon d’Or victory is the highlight of a season filled with exceptional success. He excelled in European soccer by winning both the Ligue 1 title and the Trophies de Champions with Paris Saint Germain.
The Argentine maestro, who previously played for FC Barcelona, also played a crucial role in Argentina’s FIFA World Cup triumph. Surpassing competitors like Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham, Messi once again proves his status as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.
Among the 30 finalists for the Ballon d’Or, notable names included Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Junior, Karim Benzema, and Harry Kane.
Messi was the overwhelming favorite to win, with odds of around -2500 on most sportsbooks. Haaland had odds of +900, while Bellingham was at +4000.
The night had some consolation for Haaland as he took home the Gerd Muller Trophy for the best striker of the season.
Bonmatí Triumphs for Spain
In women’s soccer, Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí won the Ballon d’Or. Her exceptional contributions were showcased during Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory just two months ago.
Bonmatí not only played a crucial role in securing the title but also made a lasting impact individually, scoring three goals and providing two assists. Her outstanding performance earned her the Golden Ball, awarded to the best player of the World Cup.
Bonmatí’s influence extended beyond the international stage. She played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s double triumph, helping them secure the Liga F title and win the Women’s Champions League for the second time.
The 25-year-old was also the favorite among oddsmakers, with odds of -150, well ahead of Real Madrid’s Olga Carmona at +800. Man U’s Mary Earps took third place with odds of +1000.