WATCH: Lionel Messi presents his Ballon d’Or to Inter Miami fans in GRAND ceremony

Lionel Messi presented his eighth Ballon d'Or to the Inter Miami fans.

WATCH: Lionel Messi presents his Ballon d’Or to Inter Miami fans in GRAND ceremony

Lionel Messi presenting his Ballon d'Or to the Inter Miami fans. (Via GOAL)

Lionel Messi, the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner, and World Cup champion is no stranger to presenting his trophies in front of a crowd. The Argentine triumphed over Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe in the 2023 Ballon d’Or voting. After securing a historical and record eighth, Lionel Messi’s club, Inter Miami were witness to the same in a magnificent ceremony.

A return to Europe is unlikely and Inter Miami are ranked relatively low in European football. Therefore, it is unlikely that the Argentine will lift another Ballon d’Or. However, the DRV PNK Stadium was witness to his latest in an awe-inspiring welcome for the Argentine after his honor. In a video posted by Inter Miami, a jubilated Leo Messi is seen greeting the crowd under the floodlights.

YouTube video

The player walked out of the tunnel to the cheers as a golden carpet led him to the middle of the pitch. Consequently, he was greeted by club officials and was congratulated for his win.

FS Video

He soaked in the roar of the home fans as they held up flashlights to create a beautiful scene for Messi’s 8th Ballon d’Or. He presented his trophy to the crowd before speaking to the fans as well.

Lionel Messi speaks to Miami fans after his historic win

An elated Lionel Messi spoke to the home fans who had gathered in the stadium to celebrate his historic Ballon d’Or win. After a ‘disappointing’ end to his first season at Miami, the Argentine is looking forward to his first full season with the club owned by David Beckham. Messi took the time to thank the fans for this “beautiful ceremony” and said that sharing this win felt very special for the player.

Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi (Via X/@AnkurMessi)

He expressed his love for the club, stating: 

I've been here for a short period, but it feels like a long time.

The player also said that he had no doubts that he would enjoy his first season at the club. Messi was in blazing form for the club, suffering zero losses before his injury in August. He scored 11 goals and set up another 5 in 14 matches for the club.

He reiterated that the next season will be even more enjoyable. He said:

Let's keep enjoying and win more titles.

Lionel Messi also stressed that there are important tournaments next season to face together. As he concluded, he asked for the support of the fans for the upcoming season. Miami clinched their first-ever trophy with the Argentine, lifting the Leagues Cup.

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