Lionel Messi wins Ballon d'Or 2023 for eighth time

PARIS: Lionel Messi won the Ballon d'Or for the eighth time in his career. The award was announced at the star-studded function held in Paris.

His performance in the Qatar World Cup won him the award. Messi, who is the best player in the World Cup with seven goals, also performed well in the American Major Soccer League. Messi won the award by overcoming the challenge of Erling Haaland and Manchester City's own Kevin Nnady Bruin, who played a crucial role in giving Manchester City the triple crown.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo shared 13 Ballon d'Or awards in the last 15 years. Messi won the award eight times and Cristiano five times. Luka Modric in 2018 and Karim Benzema broke this last year.