FIFA Names Messi Player of the Year 2022, England Women’s Team Commended for Euro Success

PARIS – Lionel Messi was named FIFA player of the year 2022 on Monday as Argentina won all the major men’s awards following their victorious World Cup final in December.

In a thrilling final match against France, the 35-year-old forward demonstrated remarkable talent and skill by scoring two crucial goals. Ultimately, the South American team emerged as the victors in a nail-biting penalty shootout, triumphing over their opponents after a thrilling 3-3 draw in extra time at the Qatar tournament.

“It is truly incredible. This past year has been nothing short of exceptional, and I am truly humbled to be standing here tonight, accepting this prestigious award,” expressed Messi. He remained seated alongside his teammate, Kylian Mbappe, the talented forward from France’s Paris St Germain, during the entire ceremony held at Paris’s Salle Pleyel.

Kylian Mbappe, who was also a contender for the prestigious award of the evening, scored a hat-trick in the World Cup final. However, Messi’s long-awaited triumph in the ultimate prize of global football overshadowed Mbappe’s remarkable accomplishment.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to coach Lionel Scaloni and my teammates, as without their support and teamwork, I would not have reached this point,” Messi expressed his gratitude.

“I have successfully fulfilled a long-held aspiration, a dream that few individuals ever realize. It is an achievement that every player aspires to, and I consider myself exceptionally fortunate to have accomplished it.”

His compatriots Lionel Scaloni and Emiliano Martinez were both presented with awards, with Scaloni winning the Coach of the Year accolade and Martinez being named Keeper of the Year. Additionally, their dedicated supporters were recognized for their unwavering commitment and received the prestigious Best Fans prize. Furthermore, England was commended for their triumphant performance in the Women’s Euro 2022 tournament.

Mary Earps was awarded the title of goalkeeper of the year, while England’s Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman was honored as the best coach. Wiegman’s team had an impressive representation in the year’s World 11, with four players earning a spot – Beth Mead, Lucy Bronze, Leah Williamson, and Keira Walsh.

Spain’s Alexia Putellas, who was awarded the Ballon d’Or in the previous year, has been honored as the women’s player of the year. Her exceptional performance played a pivotal role in leading Barcelona to secure their third consecutive national title in 2022.

Polish amputee, Marcin Oleksy, was awarded the prestigious Puskas prize for scoring the best goal of the year. His incredible acrobatic volley, executed during a match between Warta Poznan and Stal Rzeszow, solidified his well-deserved recognition.