“Important for Him… and This Sport” – Despite Hard Feelings on 2022 Ballon d’Or Snub, Lionel Messi Approves Karim Benzema’s Triumph

Lionel Messi is one of the most accomplished soccer stars of all time. With seven Ballon d’Or awards, no player can question the dominance he showcased over the years. However, the Ballon d’Or snub of last year shook him as Karim Benzema claimed his first individual prize. Despite the challenging first season with PSG in 2021, Messi confessed that he deserved to be a part of the top 30. In fact, the technical ability itself demands his name on the list, according to some!

As Lionel Messi aims for his record eighth Ballon d’Or award, he is set to make an unprecedented mark on soccer history. Despite his personal ordeal and shocking snub in 2022, he has voiced his support and approval for Benzema’s triumph.

Lionel Messi approves of Benzema’s deserved triumph

Enjoying his time at Inter Miami, Messi advertised the sportsmanship part of the game that defines him. As the soccer world eagerly awaits the coveted 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony, the latest reports from French outlet Lequipe have surfaced, revealing the Argentine’s reaction to the Frenchmen’s convincing triumph. 

The Inter Miami star wholeheartedly endorsed Benzema’s Ballon d’Or victory, stating, “Karim Benzema winning the Ballon d’Or was important for him & for this sport. He really deserved it.” 

Messi put his personal feelings aside and recognized Benzema’s outstanding season with Real Madrid, which produced 44 goals and 15 assists. Comparing those numbers to Messi, the gulf in quality of the performances epitomized the reason Benzema won the award. For Messi, it became a challenging start to his life at PSG!

The Argentine magician, who had spent his entire career at Barcelona, struggled to find his feet in his new surroundings. Messi scored just 11 goals that season with PSG and experienced a disappointing UEFA Champions League exit in the Round of 16 at the hands of Benzema and Real Madrid. However, Messi mounted a remarkable comeback by leading Argentina to the World Cup final in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and became sainted. As a result, the 8th Ballon d’Or is on its way. 

READ MORE: “Totally Unjust for the Ballon d’Or…” – Lionel Messi Does Not Deserve to Be Honored Over Erling Haaland and Manchester City Stars, Says Analyst

Messi chases history!

According to several media reports, Messi is the frontrunner to lift his record-breaking 8th Ballon d’Or award. The Argentine led the way for the national team by scoring seven goals and three assists. Ultimately, those performances earned him the Golden Ball. 

WATCH THIS STORY: Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Make a Huge Assist for Esports Space

Messi’s chase for the Ballon d’Or is one of the most anticipated storylines in the soccer world this year. From shock and disappointment to triumph and humility, Lionel Messi’s story almost reaches its anti-climax. All eyes will be on him when they announce the award on October 30th.