Argentina megastar Lionel Messi has won the 2023 Ballon d'0r award for a record 8th time in his career.

The Inter Miami star beat off competition from Manchester City's Erling Haaland and Paris Saint Germain's Kylian Mbappe who finished in second and third place respectively.

The 36-year-old won his first award back in 2009 and went ahead to win in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019 and 2021.

Messi's victory comes against the backdrop of his scintillating performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup where he led his Argentina side to their third World Cup trophy in Qatar.

Erling Haaland who won a treble with Manchester City and also netted 52 goals last season won the Gerd Muller Trophy given to the best striker of the year.

Argentina and Aston Villa shot-stopper Emiliano Martinez won the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper.

Real Madrid's midfield sensation Jude Bellingham also won the Kopa Trophy as the world’s best U-21 footballer.

Barcelona's Aitana Bonmati also went home with the women's Ballon d'Or prize.

WDN