Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami CF superstar, has secured his eighth Ballon d’Or title, setting a new record. He clinched the prestigious award despite stiff competition from Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, thanks to his pivotal role in leading Argentina to World Cup victory last year.

At the age of 36, Messi has the distinction of being the first player based in Major League Soccer (MLS) to claim this coveted accolade. However, it’s important to note that this remarkable achievement is primarily attributed to his outstanding contributions while representing his nation in the World Cup. The award was presented to Messi in Paris by former Manchester United player and Inter Miami co-owner, David Beckham, making it a special moment for both Messi and his new club.

Haaland, who notched an impressive 52 goals in the previous season while helping City secure the Treble in 2022-23, clinched the second spot in the Ballon d’Or voting and was honored with the Gerd Muller Trophy, recognizing him as the best striker of the year.

Following the presentation of his award, Messi expressed his gratitude and reflected on his remarkable career, stating, “I couldn’t have imagined the career I’ve had and all that I’ve achieved. I’ve been fortunate to play for the best team in the world, the greatest team in history. It’s truly special to receive these individual accolades. Winning the Copa America and then the World Cup is an incredible feat. Each of these Ballon d’Or awards holds its unique significance for me.”

Before Messi was presented with his award, Aitana Bonmatí, the Barcelona and Spain midfielder, earned the Ballon d’Or Féminin following a record-breaking year with both her club and country. She played a pivotal role in helping Barcelona secure Liga F and the Champions League in the previous season, subsequently leading Spain to World Cup victory during the summer.

In addition to these recognitions, other awards were conferred on Monday. Messi’s compatriot and Argentina teammate Emiliano Martinez received the Yashin Trophy for being the best goalkeeper, while Jude Bellingham, the talented England and Real Madrid midfielder, was honored with the Kopa Trophy, presented to the world’s top player under the age of 21.

During his acceptance speech, Messi took a moment to remember his fellow Argentine, Diego Maradona, on what would have been Maradona’s birthday. The legendary 1986 World Cup winner, who passed away on November 22, 2020, would have turned 63 on that day. Messi paid tribute, saying, “My final mention goes to Diego [Maradona]. Today is his birthday, and I want to remember him from this stage, surrounded by the finest players, coaches, and people who share the love for football as he did. Wherever you are, Diego, happy birthday. This is for you.”

Even before the ceremony in Paris on Monday, Messi had already made history by winning the Ballon d’Or more times than any other player. He initially claimed the award in 2009, and subsequently in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.

Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed the Ballon d’Or five times, and there are three-time winners in the likes of Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten.

Last season, Messi, scoring 21 goals in 41 appearances, contributed to Paris Saint-Germain retaining the Ligue 1 title before his move to Inter Miami earlier this year.

Since his arrival in the United States, he has notched 11 goals in 14 games for Miami, aiding the franchise in securing its first-ever silverware, the Leagues Cup. However, towards the end of the regular MLS season, he missed several matches due to injury, as Gerardo “Tata” Martino’s team fell just short of clinching a playoff spot.

It’s Messi’s standout performance in the 2022 World Cup that has earned him an unprecedented eighth Ballon d’Or. Argentina’s triumph in Qatar marked their third World Cup victory after a 36-year wait, and Messi played a pivotal role as the team’s captain. He scored seven goals and provided three assists, earning the title of Player of the Tournament. His notable contributions included two goals in the final and another in the penalty shootout against France, contributing to one of the most memorable World Cup finals in history.

Having faced disappointment in four previous World Cups, including a loss in the 2014 final to Germany, many considered this tournament his last opportunity to secure football’s most prestigious prize. At the age of 36 years and four months, Messi also becomes the second-oldest Ballon d’Or winner, surpassing last year’s recipient, Karim Benzema. The only older recipient was Stanley Matthews in 1956, who claimed the award at the age of 41.

Messi’s initial six Ballon d’Or triumphs occurred during his tenure with Barcelona, where he holds the club’s records for goals scored and appearances. His seventh win took place shortly after joining PSG in 2021 following Argentina’s success in the Copa America.