Messi’s Remarkable Achievements and Recognition
Lionel Andrés Messi, commonly known as Leo Messi, has not only secured his position as one of the greatest footballers of all time but jiliko has also become the world’s highest-paid athlete as of May 16, 2023.
FIFA Best Men’s Footballer and Coach Awards
In the 2023 Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony held in London, Messi was crowned the FIFA Best Men’s Footballer, further solidifying his legacy in the sport. Simultaneously, Manchester City’s accomplished manager, Pep Guardiola, received the prestigious FIFA Best Men’s Coach of the jiliko Year award.
Messi’s Transfer and Financial Success
After leaving FC Barcelona, Messi transferred to Paris Saint-Germain in August 2021, making a groundbreaking move in his illustrious career. Surprisingly, a contract leak in January 2021 revealed that Messi’s earnings at Barcelona were even higher than previously estimated, reaching up to an astonishing $165 million annually in salary and incentives.
In March 2022, Messi ventured into the realm of endorsements, signing a lucrative $20 million annual deal with the fan engagement app, Socios. Additionally, he expanded his business portfolio by launching his own clothing line and inaugurating the Messi Store in Barcelona. Notably, he has maintained a lifelong partnership with the renowned sports brand, Adidas.
FIFA Best Women’s Footballer and Coach Awards
Aitana Bonmati from Barcelona received the FIFA Best Women’s Footballer award in the same ceremony. Meanwhile, Sarina Wiegman, the head coach of the England women’s national team, was honored as the FIFA Best Women’s Coach of the Year.
Goalkeeper Achievements
In the goalkeeping realm, Ederson, Manchester City’s Brazilian goalie, was recognized as the 2023 FIFA Best Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year. On the women’s side, Mary Earps, the English goalie from Manchester United, reclaimed the title as the FIFA Best Women’s Goalkeeper of the jiliko Year.
FIFA FIFPRO World 11 Selections
The 2023 FIFA FIFPRO Men’s and Women’s World 11 lists featured outstanding players from around the globe. Notable names like Thibaut Courtois, Ruben Dias, Kevin De Bruyne, and Lionel Messi secured spots in the prestigious men’s lineup, while Mary Earps, Lucy Bronze, Sam Kerr, and Alex Morgan earned well-deserved places in jiliko the women’s equivalent.
Fair Play and Special Recognition
The Brazil national men’s football team received the 2023 FIFA Fair Play award for their exemplary display against racist slurs directed at Real Madrid’s Brazilian player, Vinicius Jr., in the Spanish La Liga.
The ceremony also paid tribute to football legends Franz Beckenbauer, Sir Bobby Charlton, and Mario Zagallo, recognizing their immense contributions to the sport.
Puskas Award and Best Fan Recognition
The 2023 FIFA Puskas Award, honoring the best goal of the year, was clinched by Botafogo’s former midfielder, Brazilian Guilherme Madruga. Meanwhile, the FIFA Best Fan Award went to Hugo Miguel Iniguez, a devoted Colon fan seen bottle-feeding his baby during a match.
Messi’s Impact Beyond Football
Messi’s move to Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami in July was acknowledged by TIME, leading to him being honored as the TIME’s 2023 Athlete of the Year. His leadership at Inter Miami resulted in the club’s historic Leagues Cup triumph in August, marking their first-ever title.
In October, Messi’s exceptional performance guided Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, securing his eighth Ballon d’Or award. Over his illustrious career, Messi has amassed an incredible 44 trophies, including the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup with Argentina.
International Recognition and TIME’s Athlete of the Year
Messi’s achievements extended beyond the football field when he was named TIME’s 2023 Athlete of the Year, joining the ranks of esteemed athletes such as Simone Biles, LeBron James, and the US women’s national soccer team. This recognition further solidified Messi’s impact not only in football but also in the broader sports landscape.