Ballon d'Or 2023: Messi Beats Haaland To Win For Record Time

Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami CF star, secured his eighth Ballon d'Or, surpassing Manchester City's Erling Haaland. He clinched the award after guiding Argentina to World Cup victory.

In the high-stakes final against France last December, the 36-year-old netted two crucial goals in the 3-3 draw, excelled in the penalty shootout, and earned Player of the Match.

Erling Haaland secured the second spot in the Ballon d'Or voting after a remarkable season with 52 goals and helped his team to win the Treble in 2022-23. He also clinched the Gerd Muller Trophy for the year's top striker.

Lionel Messi, the former Barcelona forward, enjoyed a 17-year stint with the club from 2004 to 2021. He previously clinched the Ballon d'Or in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.

Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Portugal and Al Nassr, has won five Ballon d'Or awards. However, he was not nominated for the 2023 edition.

Aitana Bonmatí, the midfielder from Barcelona and Spain, secured the Ballon d'Or Féminin after a remarkable year. She played a pivotal role in Barcelona's Liga F and Champions League victories and led Spain to a World Cup triumph.

Emiliano Martinez of Argentina received the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper, and Jude Bellingham, the English midfielder from Real Madrid, was awarded the Kopa Trophy as the world's best player under 21.