New Delhi: Lionel Messi, the name synonymous with football brilliance, celebrates his 37th birthday today (June 24, 2024). Widely regarded as the greatest of all time, Messi’s trophy cabinet and record book entries are a testament to his unparalleled talent and dedication. As we honor his legacy on his special day let’s delve into 10 remarkable records held by this Argentine maestro:
Most Ballon d’Or Wins: Lionel Messi is the only footballer to have won as many as eight Ballon d’Or awards. Cristiano Ronaldo, at No.2, has just five to his name.
Most Copa America Appearances: Messi created the record for most appearances in Copa America history against Canada in the Copa America 2024 opener on Friday. This was his 35th appearance, surpassing Chile’s Sergio Livingstone who featured in 34 games.
Part of Elite club: Messi is one of the nine players who have managed to win the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA Champions League title and the Ballon d’Or during their careers. The other eight that have the same feat are – Bobby Charlton, Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller, Paolo Rossi, Zinedine Zidane, Rivaldo, Ronaldhino and Kaka.
Most European Golden Shoe Award: Awarded to the top goalscorer in European League competitions, the European Golden Shoe also glitters brightly in Messi’s collection. His six Golden Shoes solidify his status as a relentless goal-scoring machine.
Most FIFA World Player of the Year Award: Before the Ballon d’Or revamp FIFA awarded the World Player of the Year award. Messi holds the record for most wins here as well with a record-breaking eight, further cementing his god-like status from the 2000s and early 2010s.
Most Goals for one club: For 17 years Barcelona witnessed the magic of No. 10. He holds the record for most goals scored for a single club, with a phenomenal 672 goals surpassing the legendary Pele’s 643 goals for Santos.
No.1 La Liga player: A true playmaker, Messi has scored 474 goals and 36 hat tricks in La Liga history. He isn’t just about scoring goals. He holds the record for most La Liga assists (192), showcasing his incredible vision and ability to create chances for his team.
World record for most goals in a calendar year: Messi shattered a long-standing record by scoring an astonishing 91 goals in a single calendar year in 2012. Eclipsing the previous record of 85 goals set by Gerd Muller in 1972 and solidified Messi’s reputation as a scoring machine.
Most International goals for Argentina: As Argentina’s captain and talisman Messi has rewritten the record books for his national team as well. His record 108 international goals makes him Argentina’s all-time leading scorer surpassing the legendary Diego Maradona.
Most World Cup appearances: Messi has played in a total of 26 matches for Argentina in the World Cup which is the record for most appearances by any player in WC history.
Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrating his goal. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
While these records highlight Messi’s achievements they only tell one part of the story. His dribbling wizardry, extraordinary free kicks and ability to score from seemingly impossible situations have brought joy to millions of fans worldwide. Beyond statistics, Messi’s humility, sportsmanship and love for the game have made him a beloved figure both on and off the pitch.
As Lionel Messi celebrates his birthday today, the soccer world reflects on the countless magical moments he has created. Here’s to the maestro, whose legacy will inspire generations to come. Happy Birthday Lionel Messi!
Celebrate Lionel Messi’s birthday with 10 remarkable records that define his legendary career. From Ballon d’Or wins to goal-scoring feats, discover why Messi is one of football’s greatest icons. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
