Messi wins record eighth Ballon d'Or crown

Lionel Messi secured his eighth Ballon d'Or win in Paris, marking a historic achievement at 36. His instrumental role in Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar made him the standout contender on the 30-man shortlist. Following closely in second place was Manchester City's Erling Haaland. Reflecting on the honor, Messi expressed, "They're all special. It's nice to be here once more to enjoy this moment, to be able to win the World Cup and achieve my dream." In the women's category, Aitana Bonmati, the 25-year-old midfielder from Spain and Barcelona, earned recognition for her pivotal role in securing the World Cup for La Roja this summer. She outshone Australia's Sam Kerr, a striker for Chelsea, in the voting, with her young teammate, Salma Paralluelo, claiming the third spot. "He'll celebrate this with his team-mates and his family in his way. We'll do our best to celebrate it in the Miami way. I'm sure we can do a good part...