Lionel Messi, the star of Inter Miami CF, secured an unprecedented eighth Ballon d'Or award, making him the first MLS-based player to achieve this feat.
His triumph was largely attributed to his remarkable contributions to Argentina's World Cup victory. The award was presented to him by former Manchester United player and Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham in Paris.
Despite Manchester City's Erling Haaland's impressive season, where he scored 52 goals, he finished as the runner-up and received the Gerd Muller Trophy for the best striker.
Messi expressed his gratitude for his illustrious career and the significance of winning individual trophies, especially after securing both the Copa America and the World Cup. Aitana Bonmatí won the Ballon d'Or Féminin, and other notable awards were presented, including Emiliano Martinez receiving the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper and Jude Bellingham awarded the Kopa Trophy as the world's top player under 21. Messi also paid tribute to Diego Maradona on his birthday during his acceptance speech.
Messi's eighth Ballon d'Or victory cements his legacy, with his previous wins coming during his time at Barcelona and PSG.