Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi, the world’s most loved, adored football player, held the Ballon d’Or aloft amidst a backdrop of fireworks that illuminated the night sky. The occasion marked a special celebration for Inter Miami, with Messi gracing the pitch for a friendly against New York City FC.
The friendly match was orchestrated to commemorate Messi’s historic eighth Ballon d’Or win, a feat achieved at a prestigious black-tie ceremony in Paris last month. No other player in the history of football has secured this accolade more than five times, solidifying Messi’s unparalleled status in the sport.
With the iconic trophy cradled in his left hand, Messi traversed a golden carpet laid across the field, where he was greeted by MLS Commissioner Don Garber and Inter Miami owners Jorge and Jose Mas. Amidst the deafening cheers of the crowd, Messi raised the Ballon d’Or in a symbolic gesture of triumph.
“It’s beautiful to share it with you all,” Messi expressed. “I’ve been here for a short time, but it seems like a long time.”
Inter Miami Celebrated Player Lionel Messi Honored with 8th Ballon d’Or Grace
Even MLS Commissioner Don Garber, captivated by the significance of the moment, couldn’t resist capturing it on his cell phone. “You, Inter Miami fans, have the best player who’s ever played the game,” Garber declared.
Inter Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino embraced the opportunity to honor Messi, stating, “He’s the main star of this match, and we want to join him celebrating his eighth Ballon d’Or.”
The friendly served as a farewell on home turf for Inter Miami, with Messi absent from the team’s previous home schedule. Originally slated for two matches in China, the team pivoted to arrange the exhibition match against NYCFC, providing fans with an additional chance to witness Messi’s brilliance.
“I would like to thank all the people of Miami, not just the ones here in the stadium,” Messi acknowledged. “The treatment for myself and my family… you’ve made me feel at home.”
Messi, absent from play since Inter Miami’s MLS finale on October 21, is set to participate in at least two more matches in 2023, contributing to Argentina’s World Cup qualifying games.
Looking ahead to 2024, Inter Miami anticipates a packed schedule with participation in the Leagues Cup, U.S. Open Cup, CONCACAF Champions Cup, and the MLS regular season. Messi expressed optimism for the upcoming year, stating, “I have no doubt … that next year will be much better.”
The acclaim for Messi’s greatness extended beyond the stadium, with Inter Miami forward Benjamin Cremaschi asserting, “He’s proved that for the last 18 years. I think he is the best player in the world, the best player in history.”
As Messi continues to etch his name in the annals of football history, the debate surrounding the title of the “Greatest Of All Time” in football may be drawing to a close, with Messi’s eight Ballon d’Or trophies tipping the scales decisively in his favor.
