Lionel Messi with the 8th Golden Ball of his career – Photo: REUTERS

As expected, Messi outperformed Haaland and Mbappe to earn the Golden Ball for the eighth time in his career, as Argentina won the World Cup in 2022. It’s made even more intriguing by the fact that former British star David Beckham (president of Inter Miami, where Messi currently plays) was the one to announce the results and present him with the prize.

Even though it was the eighth time he stepped onto the podium to receive the award, Messi was still very emotional. “It’s nice to be here again enjoying this moment,” he told the press. Thank you everyone, especially my teammates. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. This golden ball is a great gift for all  Argentines.

I don’t want to forget Haaland or  Mbappe , who have had a wonderful and spectacular year. I think in the coming years they will win this award. The competition level never drops, I’ve been lucky to be here for many years.

I would also like to thank everyone in my family, my wife and my 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren for always being there for me in the worst times. They helped me realize my dream in football. Without them it would not have been possible.

I want to mention Maradona one last time. Happy 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡day, I think there is no better place to celebrate him than here, where there are so many players and balls. This golden ball also belongs to you and to all of Argentina.”

Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona, Spanish women’s team) earned the Golden Ball award for best female player at the age of 25. – Photographer: AP

Meanwhile, in the women’s event, 25-year-old striker Aitana Bonmati received the Golden Ball award, which was presented to her by world number one tennis player Novak Djokovic. Bonmati had a fantastic season with the Barcelona women’s squad, and she helped Spain win the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

Ballon d’Or 2023 (Golden Ball 2023) is the 67th annual award ceremony organised by France Football magazine to recognise athletes who have excelled in their respective sports.