‘Lionel Messi Would've Won The Ballon d’Or 15 Times': Inter Milan Star Credits Cristiano Ronaldo For Challenging Messi's Dominance

In the star-studded evening at Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, Lionel Messi added another glittering chapter to his illustrious career, securing his record-extending eighth Ballon d'Or title. The 36-year-old football legend outshone formidable contenders, including Norway's Erling Haaland and France's Kylian Mbappe to claim the prestigious title.

Lautaro Martinez, in a recent statement, expressed his belief that Lionel Messi would have secured a staggering 15 Ballon d'Or awards if not for the formidable presence of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Martinez, who himself claimed the 20th spot on the Ballon d'Or list following his impressive 2022/23 season with Inter, made a bold assertion. He emphasised that Cristiano Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner and currently playing for Al-Nassr, was the primary reason Messi did not accumulate even more of these prestigious awards.

"He [Messi] had to share this era with Cristiano Ronaldo, otherwise he would have won the Ballon d’Or 15 times," ESPN quoted Martinez as saying.

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In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Messi described this win as 'more special' because it followed his World Cup triumph.

"The last one I won was also thanks to what we achieved with the Argentine national team in the Copa America (in 2021), but this one is much more special because it comes after we won the World Cup," Messi said, showcasing his deep pride in his national team's achievements.

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The World Cup had been the elusive jewel in Messi's illustrious career, making this victory even sweeter as Argentina rectified their loss in the 2014 final to Germany. Before departing for Inter Miami, Messi clinched the Ligue 1 title with Paris St Germain and also contributed to Major League Soccer success by helping Inter Miami secure the Leagues Cup, marking their first major trophy win.

Interestingly, since Kaka's win in 2007, only two players outside of Messi and Ronaldo, namely Luka Modric (2018) and Karim Benzema (2022), have claimed the Ballon d'Or.

Argentina will take on Uruguay and Brazil in upcoming World Cup qualifier matches on November 17 and 22, where Messi and Martinez will be seen leading the front line for the World Champions.