Messi Wins Laureus Sportsman of the Year Award for the second time

Lionel Messi, the Argentine football superstar, was named the Sportsman of the Year at the 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony in Paris. Messi won the prestigious award for his incredible achievements on the pitch in the past year, which included leading Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup.

It is for the second time Messi has won the Laureus Sportsman of the Year Award, making him the only footballer ever to win the award twice. The Argentine won his first award in 2020, sharing it with Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton.

Other nominees for the award included tennis star Rafael Nadal, basketball player Stephen Curry, track and field athlete Mondo Duplantis, Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen, and footballer Kylian Mbappe. However, Messi emerged as the winner of the award.

In his acceptance speech, Messi talked about his World Cup journey and dedicated the accolade to the people of Argentina. He expressed gratitude for the recognition and thanked his supporters for their unwavering support throughout his career.

Image Credit: @leomessi

Messi also accepted the Team of the Year award on behalf of Argentina, who defeated France on penalties in the FIFA World Cup final last year. He became the first-ever athlete to win the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and Laureus World Team of the Year Awards in the same year.

The Laureus World Sports Awards are widely regarded as the most prestigious sports awards in the world. The annual event recognizes the best athletes and teams from around the world, honouring their achievements and contributions to the world of sports.

Messi’s win at the Laureus World Sports Awards has cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. The Argentine has won numerous accolades throughout his career, including seven Ballon d’Or titles and four Champions League titles with Barcelona.