Lionel Messi, the forward for Inter Miami, is poised to secure his eighth Ballon d’Or later this month, as per reports from the UK Mirror. The winners of both the male and female awards for 2023 have been prematurely disclosed.
Messi’s remarkable achievements include leading Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar last year. After narrowly missing out on the 2022 Ballon d’Or, which went to Karim Benzema, Messi has been informed of his forthcoming triumph. The prestigious ceremony is scheduled to take place in Paris on Monday, October 30.
In the female category, it is reported that Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati will be named the recipient. Her contribution included winning the Women’s World Cup with Spain, following a dramatic final against England in August.
Lionel Messi’s anticipated victory will mark the first time in history that the Ballon d’Or has been awarded to a player outside of Europe, and it will also extend his lead over his perennial rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, by three titles.
