How Lionel Messi reacted to winning 8th Ballon d’Or

Haaland, Mbappe both deserved the Ballon d’Or this year — Lionel Messi concedes after clinching 8th title.

Lionel Messi clinched his eighth Ballon d’Or, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

The Argentine sensation, who led his national team to their first World Cup victory since 1986 in Qatar, claimed the prestigious accolade once again.

This time, he managed to edge out formidable competition in the form of Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.

The award presentation was made all the more special as Inter Miami owner, David Beckham, did the honors. Following the presentation, Lionel Messi delivered a heartfelt speech expressing his gratitude and paying tribute to key figures in his life and the football world.

For English speakers, Messi’s words can be translated as follows:

“Thanks to everyone, especially my teammates. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. This Ballon d’Or is a great gift for all of Argentina.

“I don’t want to forget Haaland or Mbappé, who had a great year, spectacular, and in the coming years, they will win this award.

“The level [of competition] never decreases, I have been lucky to be here for many years. I want to provide a special mention for all those people who were happy that Argentina became world champions.

“Thanks also to all my family, my wife, my children, for being there in the worst moments, and they have helped me fulfill my dreams in football. Without you, it would not have been possible.

“I want to make one last mention of Maradona. Happy birthday, I think there is no better place than here to congratulate him, full of players and with a ball. This Ballon d’Or is also yours and that of all of Argentina.”

Lionel Messi also reflected on the importance of teamwork and the recognition of his colleagues, stating,

“All the awards have been special, but I always emphasize the importance of the team. This is secondary.”

He didn’t forget to highlight the excellence of clubs like Manchester City, who have excelled in recent seasons, while acknowledging his fortune in being part of the world’s best teams.

He acknowledged the fierce competition among younger players and commended both Haaland and Mbappe, stating,

“It’s going to be a nice fight between the two of them and between several other younger players around here. They both deserved it this year.”