Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has been announced winner of the 2023 Ballon d’Or award, raising his tally to eight, amidst 30 contenders. Known as the “Greatest of All Time” by his fans, Messi holds the world record for the most Ballon d’Or title by a single player. The 67th edition of the award saw the Argentina 2022 World Cup winner, prevail over Manchester City forward Erling Haaland who however, won the Gerd Müller award at the event, for his treble last season. His team Manchester City were also announced as the men’s club of the year, for the second time in a roll.
Lionel Messi – Getty image In the rankings, Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen made history, ranking among the top ten players, the highest ever for any Nigerian footballer in Ballon d’Or history. Osimhen made the number 8 spot. This serves as a reward for his efforts leading Napoli to their first Serie A title after 33 years last season. Jude Bellingham who ranked 18th in the list of top 30 players, was announced the 2023 Kopa Trophy Winner. This means he is the Best under 21 football talent in the world 2023. The Real Madrid star has impressed since joining the Spanish giants from Borussia Dortmund last summer. His teammate Vinicius Jr. who made the 6th spot, won the Socrates award. Meanwhile Harry Kane was ranked number 19, following his summer move from Tottenham to Bayern Munich. Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana was named 23rd on the list, while Arsenal star Bukayo Saka occupied the number 24 position. In women’s football, FC Barcelona Femeni emerged as best club of the year, while Aitana Bonmati won the 2023 Women’s Ballon d’Or award.
