Lionel Messi marked his eighth Ballon d’Or triumph with a dazzling celebration during an Inter Miami exhibition match against New York City FC. The pregame ceremony saw Messi raise the prestigious trophy amidst a sky adorned with fireworks, capturing a moment of joy for both the player and Inter Miami in 2023.
Taking the field for his Major League Soccer club, Messi participated in the friendly contest to commemorate his historic win of the Ballon d’Or, an accolade recognizing the sport’s paramount player. The award, earned in a Paris event with a storied history, places Messi in a league of his own, with no other player having claimed the honor more than five times.
Walking onto the pitch with the trophy in hand, Messi crossed a gold carpet laid across the field to meet MLS commissioner Don Gerber and other dignitaries for a brief pregame ceremony. Amidst cheers from the crowd, Messi lifted the trophy, expressing gratitude for the warm reception. The significance of the moment was evident as even Commissioner Gerber took out her cell phone to capture the scene.
In his brief speech, Messi conveyed his appreciation, saying, “It’s great to share this with you all. I’ve only been here a short time, but it seems like a long time.”
The occasion showcased the culmination of Messi’s first four months with the club, from a lively start to the season to this celebratory finale. Inter Miami’s coach, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, emphasized Messi’s star status in the match and expressed the team’s desire to join in celebrating his eighth Ballon d’Or.
🗣️M E S S I 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/sQeXwFdUMO
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) November 11, 2023
Despite Inter Miami’s home schedule concluding weeks earlier, Messi, who had been away for World Cup qualifiers with Argentina, did not play that night. The team improvised, arranging an exhibition match against NYCFC, providing a bonus opportunity for fans to bid farewell to the year.
Messi, who last played in the MLS final on October 21, is expected to play at least twice more in 2023, participating in World Cup qualifiers with Argentina. Looking ahead to the next year, Inter Miami is gearing up for a busy season, competing in various tournaments, including the League Cup, US Open Cup, CONCACAF Champions Cup, and the MLS slate.
Messi, reflecting on his time in Miami, expressed gratitude to the fans, stating, “Treatment for me and my family… you made me feel at home.” Looking to the future, he asserted, “I have no doubt… next year will be much better. We will continue to enjoy and try to win more titles, and I hope you will be with me.”
As the debate over football’s greatest of all time (GOAT) continues, Messi’s eight Ballon d’Or trophies undeniably bolster his claim. Inter Miami forward Benjamin Cremachi, echoing the sentiments of many, declared Messi as the best player in the world and in history, citing his unparalleled skill and achievements.
