Lionel Messi has thanked journalists and ithers after setting a new record by becoming the first player in history to win six Ballon d’Or trophies.
The Barcelona forward edged out Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk to win the award, while the Argentine’s long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who did not attend the ceremony on Monday evening, finished in third place.
Messi, who lifted the coveted trophy in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2015, helped Barcelona win La Liga this year and led Argentina to third place at the Copa America in July.
Below is his message during the award:
Lionel Messi: “Good evening. I want to thank all the journalists that voted for me.”
Messi: “This is an indescribable moment. I remember winning this trophy 10 years ago. Now I win it again.”
Messi: “The time flies. I hope I can still perform on this level for a few more years. Once again, thanks to everyone.”
Messi: “As my wife has said in the message that you all just saw, I have not stopped working and dreaming all those years.”
Messi: “It’s a big moment for me. I try to improve every year. It’s an honour.”
Messi: “I want to keep working and I want to keep enjoying.”
Messi: “It’s great to be part of Barcelona’s history, the best club in the world. It really is a pride, it’s the club I love.”
Messi: “What I feel towards Barça goes beyond any signature and any paper.”
Messi: “I would rather have some more Champions Leagues or some more Copa Américas.”
Meanwhile, Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t appear at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Parisyesterday as Lionel Messi won his sixth gong.
Multiple reports claim the Portuguese star isn’t on the podium for the prize, with his Barcelona rival winning for a record sixth time and Liverpool duo Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah on either side.
Now, Sport Mediaset is running that Ronaldo has learned of his ranking, outside the top three, and has therefore decided not to attend the event.
Instead, he will turn out at the Gran Gala ceremony in Milan – also being held on Monday night – to receive the award for best Serie A player of last season.
The 34-year-old debuted as a Juve player with 21 League goals during the 2018-19 campaign but has managed just six so far this term.
