In a historic achievement, Lionel Messi has etched his name in the annals of sports history as the first individual football player ever to be crowned TIME Magazine’s ‘Athlete of the Year.’
Fresh from celebrating his record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or award, the Inter Miami luminary outshone formidable competitors, including Manchester City Treble winner Erling Haaland and World Cup finalist Kylian Mbappe, to claim this iconic individual accolade.
Messi’s impact transcends continents, as he’s taken the United States by storm, amassing 11 goals and five assists in his initial 14 appearances for David Beckham’s side.
His contribution played a pivotal role in securing the Leagues Cup for the team in his inaugural campaign.
The 36-year-old maestro continues to redefine excellence, adding yet another individual honor to his illustrious trophy cabinet.
TIME Magazine made history by announcing Messi as the 2023 Athlete of the Year, making him the inaugural individual soccer star to receive this prestigious recognition in the magazine’s storied legacy.
Previously, in 2019, the US Women’s National Team earned this distinction as the first soccer players, with subsequent individual honors going to sports luminaries such as LA Lakers icon LeBron James, gymnastics superstar Simone Biles, and baseball legend Aaron Judge.
In October, Messi’s accolades soared even higher as he clinched the Ballon d’Or, presented by his new boss, David Beckham.
The former England captain’s joy knows no bounds since securing the services of the Barcelona legend, who, in a historic move, turned down offers from Saudi Arabia to don the colors of the Floridian giants. Lionel Messi’s unprecedented achievements solidify his standing as the undisputed Greatest of All Time (GOAT).
