Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi's latest Ballon d'Or win saw him edge further away from old foe Cristiano Ronaldo after beating off strong competition for the prize from Erling Haaland
Lionel Messi beat off the competition of Erling Haaland to win a record eighth Ballon d'Or on a historic night in Paris - and he achieved another set of remarkable firsts in the process.
A formidable rival in the race for the honour was Manchester City's Haaland, who scored a staggering 52 goals en route to a treble last term. However, Messi emerged victorious, with memories of his spectacular showing in Qatar - including that sublime final against France - still fresh enough in the minds of voters.
The award also means that Messi is now officially the oldest player to win the Ballon d'Or in the modern era. The only person to have edged him in this regard is Sir Stanley Matthews - of 'Matthews Cup final' fame- who received the prize in 1956, at the age of 41. Given his advancing years, it appeared that Messi was eager to make this latest awards ceremony a real family affair on the night. He was joined by wife Antonella and their three children, with his kids also joining him on stage towards the end of a memorable evening in Paris.Keen to pay homage to personal hero Diego Maradona on what would have been his compatriot's birthday, he paid tribute to him, saying: "Wherever you are, this is also for you. Happy birthday, Diego.
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