BALLON D'OR
The records and firsts that Messi could set if he wins an eighth Ballon d’Or
On Monday 30 October 2023, the annual football gala will take place in Paris, and Lionel Messi is once again one of the big favourites to win the award.
The 2023 MLS season has concluded for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, as the team under the guidance of Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino fell far short of their objective to qualify for the playoffs. We shouldn’t forget, however, that the team did pick up its first ever piece of silverware, with an incredible Messi-infused Leagues Cup extravaganza. But now the Argentine star will now have a few days of rest before embarking on the upcoming tour of Asia.
Messi awaits Ballon d’Or votes
During this period, it is certain that the famous number 10 will travel to Paris to be present at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, where the Argentine luminary is the frontrunner to claim the prestigious award, even ahead of Erling Haaland, who achieved an astonishing treble with Manchester City, scoring goals for fun along the way.
If Messi does secure what would be his eighth Ballon d’Or, it would clearly extend the record number of times a player has won it, Cristiano Ronaldo is next with five, but the Argentine would also achieve a whole heap of other firsts.
So, here are the records that Messi could potentially break if he is awarded his eighth Ballon d’Or victory:
- Messi would become the first player to win the Ballon d’Or while playing outside of Europe.
- Messi would be the first player from the MLS and Inter Miami to win the Ballon d’Or.
- Messi would be the first player to win the Ballon d’Or in three different decades.
- Messi would be the first player to win the Ballon d’Or at the age of at least 36.
- Messi would be the first player to win the Ballon d’Or while representing three different clubs (Barcelona, PSG, and Inter Miami).
- He would hold the record for the greatest difference in years between his first and most recent Ballon d’Or.
- He would have the highest number of points in the Ballon d’Or voting.
- He would boast the most appearances on the Ballon d’Or podium.
As always, you’ll be able to find out if Messi gets the nod, as we follow the awards ceremony live on Monday right here on AS USA.