Finally! Lionel Messi officially declared winner of 2023 Ballon d’Or

A predictable conclusion it is for the 2023 Ballon d’Or awards as the world’s favorite Argentine and all time football Great, Lionel Messi is announced winner for France Football’s 2023 Ballon d’Or.

The award was presented to the football legend by Inter Miami co-owner, David Beckham of which Lionel Messi plays for.

The confirmation no longer comes as a surprise seeing as reports leaked a week ahead of the scheduled ceremony from Spain, reporting that the Inter Miami star would be claiming the prize in Paris.

Lionel Messi now adds the 2023 Ballon d’Or golden prize as his 8th in the cabinet following a triumphant 2022/23 season with Argentina at the Qatar World Cup.

Though debates may be raised over his performances at club level with Paris Saint-Germain in the 2022/23 season, Messi’s performance at the World Cup was pivotal in Argentina reaching the Final and eventually becoming World Champions after beating France.

https://x.com/ballondor/status/1719109116147220820?s=20

A record 8th Ballon d’Or for Lionel Messi it is, the most that any individual dead or alive has ever managed to claim since the history of the prize.

The Argentine sits closest rival, Erling Haaland by votes, with the Manchester City striker coming in second place despite an exciting campaign in his debut season with the Cityzens.

Erling Haaland however claimed the Gerard Muller trophy for his performances in the campaign.

Aitana Bonmati of Barcelona Femini claimed the 2023 Women’s Ballon d’Or award.

Here are the rest of the rankings;

Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen emerged 8th in the Ballon d’Or ranking, with Portugal international and Manchester City midfielder, Bernardo Silva emerging 9th in the ranking.

Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammate, Emiliano Martinez claimed the Yashin trophy as best goalkeeper of 2023 following his World Cup heroics.

Among the nominees, Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham won the 2023 KOPA TROPHY.