Messi's Argentina teammate recognises Ronaldo's Ballon d'Or achievement
Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammate Lautaro Martinez says he would have won at least 15 Ballon d'Ors if not for rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 36-year-old won the prestigious football award for the eighth time on Monday night ahead of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. Prior to the event, Martinez, 26, showered praised on the Inter Miami forward, claiming Ronaldo has stopped him from reaching doubles figures in Ballon d'Or wins.
“We are grateful to him because the truth is, what he has done in football, I think very few will be able to achieve it,” the Inter Milan striker told ESPN. “As I said before, he had to share an era with Cristiano Ronaldo, otherwise he would have won 15 Ballon d’Ors.”
From 2008-2017, Messi and Ronaldo won the award between them every year, with Messi winning it three more times since. Messi was awarded his eighth Ballon d’Or after leading Argentina to World Cup glory for the first time since 1986 in December 2022.
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He scored seven goals, one of which was an important goal against Mexico in the group stages and two goals in the final, en route to guiding his nation to the trophy. After leaving PSG this summer, Messi decided to move to the MLS and sign for Inter Miami, owned by fellow football icon David Beckham.
In all competitions, Messi scored 11 goals in 14 appearances for his new club, as well as converting three spot-kicks in penalty shootouts. Messi helped Miami win the Leagues Cup in August, the first trophy in their history and also contributed to the club reaching the final of the U.S. Open Cup, which he missed due to injury.
Lautaro Martinez says Lionel Messi would have 15 Balon d'Or awards if not for Cristiano Ronaldo (Twitter/@ESPNUK)"It's nice to be here once more to enjoy this moment," Messi said. "To be able to win the World Cup and achieve my dream." The former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain star added: "I couldn't imagine having the career I've had and everything I've achieved.
“The fortune I've had to be part of the best team in history. All of them [Ballon d'Or awards] are special for different reasons." He was presented with the award by Beckham, who took to Instagram after the ceremony to congratulate the Argentinian.
“Huge honor to present Leo with his 8th Ballon d’Or tonight in Paris,” the former England captain posted. "Such a special night for Leo and his family and it was a privilege to be there to celebrate such an incredible achievement, Miami are truly honoured to have The Best. Congratulations my friend @leomessi @intermiamicf.”
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