In a very short amount of time Lionel Messi has dazzled the world with his grace and skill on the pitch. He was just honored with the FIFA Ballon d'Or award for 2011, distinguishing him as the best player in the world.
The 24-year-old beat out the likes of his teammate Xavi Hernandez and Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid. He becomes the first to win the award in three consecutive years. Frenchman Zinedine Zidane won the award three times.
The Argentine said after receiving the award "It's the third time I get this award, and it's a huge honor.'' He helped FC Barcelona to five trophies last year.
He burst onto the scene back in 2005 after being named the player of the tournamnet at the under-20 World Cup.
Many have begun to compare Messi to some of the greatest to ever play the sport including Brazilian Pele and fellow countryman Diego Maradona. Even his teammates see the greatness that is before their very own eyes. ''He's still young. I think he's probably going to break all the record that exist in the sport,'' Xavi said.
From The Sports Mind Of RB:
Talking to a person that follows soccer passionately he told me that Messi is the greatest ever at this moment right now. I did a double take and asked best ever? And he without any hesitation said yes. It is a shame that soccer in this country is not more popular because what he is doing right now is a thing of beauty and should not be missed. Players like this are not that easy to find or produce.
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