5 things Lionel Messi has said about the Ballon d’Or over the years

#3 Messi on Ballon d'Or 2015

Messi at the FIFA Ballon d'Or Gala 2015

Although Lionel Messi won the Ballon d'Or in 2015, the star made it clear that he'd rather win a World Cup with Argentina. Back in 2014, Argentina had fought their way to the final of the most prestigious worldwide tournament. However, they eventually fell second to Germany's might. Messi would later win his fifth Ballon d'Or, but his stance was clear. He stated:

"I would prefer to win a World Cup rather than five Ballons d'Or if I had to choose. I have always said that I prefer team achievements and the World Cup is the biggest trophy out there."

The star noted that he was proud of Barcelona's wins as well:

"Last year, thankfully, we managed to reach all of our goals. It’s hard to single out one moment, my year was full of happiness. We had very special moments throughout the year. I feel proud of everything I have achieved at club level and of all the titles and so forth. It is always harder to win again after you have achieved something big before."

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#2 Messi on Ballon d'Or 2019

FC Barcelona v RCD Mallorca - La Liga

Real Madrid's dominance across Europe ensured that Cristiano Ronaldo would win back-to-back Ballon d'Ors. He managed to draw level with Messi's record of five awards. Although he picked up his sixth in 2019, Lionel Messi admitted that missing out on the award twice was a blow. He said:

"On the one hand, I enjoyed being the only player to have won five. When Cristiano equalled me, I have to admit it was a bit painful as I was no longer alone on the summit. But at that moment he deserved to win the Ballon d’Or and there wasn’t much more I could have done.”

However, he agreed with both of Ronaldo's wins. He added:

“I understand why I didn’t win. We didn’t achieve our objective of winning the Champions League and that is the competition that gives you the best chance of winning the Ballon d’Or. When Cristiano was winning all the trophies it was because he was putting in very good seasons and winning the Champions League, as well as being decisive in that competition.”

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#1 Messi on Ballon d'Or 2021

Manchester City v Paris Saint-Germain: Group A - UEFA Champions League

This season has been tough on Lionel Messi, especially with having to adapt to life in Paris Saint-Germain. He's won a major tournament with Argentina in the form of Copa America. But the star isn't sure about his chances this time around. He said:

"If I'm honest, I don't think so [he can win it]. My biggest prize was what I was able to achieve with the national team. After having fought and fought so much for that achievement, it was the best for all it cost."

He added:

"If the golden ball arrives it would be extraordinary for what it would mean winning one more. The seventh would be crazy. If not, nothing happens. I have already achieved one of my great goals. I am very happy for what happened and now that whatever has to happen, happens."

If Messi does win this time, it would be the seventh Ballon d'Or title, an unlikely bar for any player to ever reach again.