8 reasons why Lionel Messi deserves to win

Messi's longevity and continued success make him a strong contender for the Ballon d'Or, despite being in the race for 15 years.

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Messi's World Cup victory with Argentina and his Golden Ball win as the tournament's best player solidify his position in the race for the award.

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He won the World Cup Messi finally won the World Cup with Argentina, he's won the biggest tournament in the world with his nation

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He won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award Roger Federer has won it on several occasions, Lewis Hamilton has bagged it once, Tiger Woods a couple of times, but Messi is the only footballer to have ever done so. If the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award can be recognised he is still the best footballer in the world

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He won the Golden Ball in the World Cup The blend of both team and individual accomplishments in the World Cup serves as additional evidence supporting his claim to the Ballon d'Or.

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He had a big season at PSG Recording 16 goals and 16 assists in just 32 league appearances, his scintillating form served as a powerful reminder of his enduring excellencece.

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He's already been voted the best FIFA Men's Player by his peers Messi not only won the most recent FIFA Men's Player of the Year award, but he was also voted for by his peers, media and coaches for the achievement

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He has become the only star to win the World Cup Golden Ball twice the fact he is now the only footballer ever to have won the World Cup's Golden Ball award on two separate occasions deserves to be recognised.

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He achieved success with both club and country this year With a couple of trophies with PSG and the World Cup with Argentina, Messi has had a tremendous year for both club and country over the last 12 months

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Erling Haaland has disappeared in big games

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