Lionel Messi wins eighth award, beating Erling Haaland to trophy

Argentina and Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has won the Men's Ballon d'Or for the eighth time at the Ballon d’Or awards held in Paris.

The 36-year-old was recognised at the ceremony after helping his country win the World Cup in Qatar last year.

Messi says it's nice to be there once more to enjoy the moment and to win the World Cup, achieving his dream.

Messi won his record-extending Ballon d'Or award ahead of Manchester City forward Erling Haaland.

Meanwhile, Haaland was recognised for his achievements with the Gerd Muller Trophy for best goalscorer while England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham won the Kopa Trophy for the world's best player aged under 21 and Argentina World Cup winner and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez won the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper in the world.

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr received the Socrates Award for his contribution off the field and vowed to keep speaking out against racism in world football.

France forward Kylian Mbappe who became just the second man to score a World Cup final hat-trick in the 4-2 penalty shootout loss to Argentina - finished third.

Source: BBC