Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has won the 2023 Ballon d’Or, making it a record-extending award for the 2022 World Cup winner.
The Inter Miami star was named the winner of the prestigious prize on Monday night in the French city of Paris.
Messi succeeds Karim Benzema as the winner of the prize awarded for his performances last season when he inspired Argentina to glory at the World Cup.
Messi thanked his Argentina coach, teammates and staff for making his victory possible.
“Tonight I’m enjoying myself. It’s a pleasure that will never leave me, and I hope to be able to enjoy it for many years to come. Becoming world champion was the title we were missing. I’d like to thank everyone who helped make Argentina the world champion team.” Messi said through a translator.
“Happy birthday Diego. This is for you too,” he added.
Haaland came second in the final voting, with Mbappe third and Kevin De Bruyne in fourth place.
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