2023 Ballon d'Or awards ceremony - Messi, Bonmatí win Ballon d’Or

Argentina's famous football player Lionel Messi won his eighth Ballon d'Or award.

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Lionel Messi's achievement extended his record for most Ballon d'Or wins.

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In addition to Messi's award, Barcelona and Spain standout Etana Bonamati received the Ballon d'Or Féminin.

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The awards are an annual celebration of the best players in men's and women's football.

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Messi won the 2023 Ballon d'Or in Paris, an important milestone in his career.

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He captained the victorious Argentina national team at the World Cup, the most important title of his career to date.

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Messi led the voting, beating off competition from top players such as Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and his former teammate at Paris Saint-Germain Kylian Mbappe.

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Upon receiving the Ballon d'Or award, Messi expressed his gratitude, saying that he had never imagined the successful career he has enjoyed.

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He attributed his achievements to the support of his team and particularly highlighted the key role Barcelona played in winning both team titles and individual awards.

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