Lionel Messi and the extraordinary figures that support a new Ballon d’Or in the World Cup

Lionel Messi, crestfallen and with a deep sadness inside, he received the Ballon d’Or in Brazil in 2014 after having shone in a World Cup that, unfortunately, he could not win. But soccer gave him his revenge after eight years and things didn’t change much. The Argentine ’10’ was once again chosen the best player in the World Cup in Qatar 2022but this time he was overjoyed when he collected his prize after fulfilling his dream.

Life is now a little fairer for Lionel. He, more than anyone else, deserved a World Cup in his showcase. And he did it. At 35, he guided an entirely revamped team to global glory.

Messi, without a doubt, was the brightest star. Not only from Argentina, but from the entire tournament in general. This is how FIFA recognized him at the award ceremony, giving him the second Ballon d’Or of the World Cup in his career. And is not for less.

The performance of ‘Leo’ in this exciting month was simply sensational. His statistics fully support it. In his last World Cup he had to say goodbye in style and he did it, exceeding all possible expectations. His age did not weigh on him in Qatar.

In fact, the Argentine captain he was the second top scorer of the tournament with seven goals, only one less than Kylian Mbappé, who is in the prime of his career. Right now, Messi is already in the historical Top 5 of top scorers in the World Cup.

And not only that. Also he was the top assister in the World Cup (3), the player with the greatest chances created (7) and the second with the most key passes throughout the tournament (21) behind Griezmann (22).

His performance has been round. Messi deserves this Ballon d’Or and much more. For now, he’s smiling more than ever in his career and that’s the most important thing. His happiness is that of millions of Argentines and Latin Americans as well.