Lionel Messi Named TIME’s Athlete of the Year 2023, Beats Erling Haaland, Novak Djokovic & Other Sports Greats

Lionel Messi continues to make history as La Pulga has been named TIME magazine’s Athlete of the Year. The Argentine had a successful calendar year as he bagged his record 8th Ballon d’Or title. The feat saw Messi outclass the likes of Erling Haaland and Novak Djokovic, among other top athletes, to bag the award.

Messi has made waves in the United States following his move to Inter Miami. The Argentine helped the club win their first silverware this season as the side bagged the Leagues Cup title with La Pulga at the helm. The Albiceleste icon hopes he can continue to deliver for the club in the upcoming season and help them get their hands on the Major League Soccer title. But it is another purple feather to his cap!

Lionel Messi bags TIME magazine’s Athlete of the Year

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi is set to cap off his year in style, with the player being named the Athlete of the Year by the prestigious TIME magazine. La Pulga made history this year as he became the first player in the world to win 8 Ballon d’Or titles.

La Pulga, on the back of a World Cup-winning campaign, edged past Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe to win the Ballon d’Or title this year. The Argentine has also had a considerable impact on Inter Miami following his move to the United States, as he’s helped the team bag their first-ever League Cup title.

Following his achievement, La Pulga sat down with the outlet as he touched down on his move to Inter Miami. During the interview, the Argentine claimed he had offers from multiple teams; but eventually moved to Miami.

Lionel Messi talks to TIME magazine on his move to Inter Miami

La Pulga sat with TIME magazine and commented on his move to Inter Miami. The Argentine stated he wanted to return to FC Barcelona at first, but the two sides could find a way to seal the deal.

READ MORE: Riyadh Season Cup 2024: Teams, Schedule, Tickets, Trophy, Prize Money & Past Winners

Messi stated, “My first option was to return to Barcelona, but it was not possible. I tried to return, and it did not happen. The truth is that fortunately, I had several options on the table that were interesting, and I had to analyze them and think, even weigh them up with my family, before making the final decision to come to Miami.”

La Pulga added, “It is also true that later. I was thinking a lot about going to the Saudi league, where I know the country, and they have created a very powerful competition that can become an important league in the near future.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Scored Four Goals in a Game

Do you think Lionel Messi made the right move coming to Inter Miami? Let us know in the comments below.