Full list of winners at the 2023 Ballon d’Or Awards

By Tony Kipkorir

Argentina and Inter Miami FC forward Lionel Messi was among the football stars who bagged trophies at the 2023 Ballon D’Or awards ceremony held on Monday night, October 30.

The 36-year-old won a record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or ahead of Norway and Manchester City lethal striker Erling Haaland with PSG forward Kylian Mbappe being named the third best player in the universe. 

Messi played an instrumental role in Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup success scoring seven goals and being named the tournament's best player.

"This is a gift to the whole Argentina team for what we achieved," said Messi on stage after receiving his award from David Beckham, the co-owner of Inter Miami.

ALSO READ: Kipchoge’s net worth, world record, house, family

Messi dedicated the trophy to late Argentina legend Diego Maradona, who would have celebrated his 63rd birthday on Monday.

"Happy birthday Diego. This is for you too," he said.

Erling on the other hand scored 56 goals in 57 matches for both country and club as well as helped the Citizens win a treble. He also received the Gerd Muller award.

A delighted Haaland appreciated the effort of his club and individuals close to him in making him the best striker this year. 

Play here and stand a chance of winning the 21 million SportPesa Midweek Jackpot

“First of all, I want to thank Manchester City, I think the whole club for making me be myself every day. And then I also want to thank my family and all the people around me for making me who I am today. Thank you so much,” commented the former Borussia Dortmund forward.

Meanwhile, England’s midfield maestro Jude Bellingham clinched the Kopa Trophy - an award given to the best player in the world under the age of 21.

His Real Madrid teammate Vinicius Junior went home with the Socrates award thanks to his humanitarian works. 

ALSO READ: The richest club in the world in 2023

The other stars recognized in a colorful ceremony held in Paris, France included Emiliano Martinez and Spanish female footballer Aitana Bonmati.

Martinez’s remarkable goalkeeping performance at the Qatar World Cup and the Premier League for Aston Villa was the reason he was chosen as the best shot stopper in world football. 

As for Bonmati, she deservedly won the women’s Ballon D’or. 

The 25-year-old scored 11 goals in the 2022/2023 Women’s UEFA Champions League to help FC Barcelona Femeni lift the coveted title.

ALSO READ: Sebastian Sawe reveals 2024 plans, introduces Ugandan athlete who mentored him

She also played a crucial role in Spain’s Women’s World Cup triumph and won the league with her club.

In the club’s category, Manchester City and FC Barcelona Femeni were named as the best sides in the world (clubs of the year). 

Full List of Winners

Men’s Ballon D’Or - Lionel Messi

Women’s Ballon D’Or - Aitana Bonmati

Kopa Trophy - Jude Bellingham

Socrates Award - Vinicius Junior

Gerd Muller Trophy - Erling Haaland

Yachine Trophy - Emiliano Martinez

Men’s club of the year - Manchester City

Women’s club of the year - Aitana Bonmati