Lionel Messi Makes History, Wins 2021 Ballon d’Or

Argentine forward and Paris Saint-Germain striker, Lionel Messi has emerged as the winner of the 2021 men’s Ballon d’or.

The talismanic player made history on Monday night when he was declared winner of the award ahead of all other contestants including Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski.

With the 2021 award in the kitty, 34-year-old Messi has now won the Ballon d’Or for a record seventh time.

Naija News reports the Ballon d’Or held at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France.

Messi’s closest rival in the list of winners of the prestigious Ballon d’or award, Cristiano Ronaldo who has 5 wins to his name could only manage a 6th place finish on Monday night in the top list of players contesting for the 2021 award.

Earlier, Naija News had also reported that Polish professional footballer, Robert Lewandowski has won this year’s striker of the year award.

The Bayern Munich player was announced striker of the year at the 2021 Ballon d’Or event on Monday.

Lewandowski who wins the inaugural Striker of the Year award was a bit emotional while addressing dignitaries and fellow players after he was called up to speak at the event.

“I’m very proud of this trophy, I know what it means to be ready to score the goal,” the Polish player said.

He added: “Everything I do I have to thank my teammates, coach, and staff. Without them, it’s difficult to be at the front.”