In the grand theater of sports, 2023 was a year of spectacular performances. Yet, one name echoed louder than the rest – Lionel Messi.
His journey to being named Time’s Athlete of the Year for 2023 is a saga of unmatched excellence on the pitch, significant contributions off it, and a profound impact on the global sports community.
The Magic on the Field
Lionel Messi is TIME's 2023 Athlete of the Year https://t.co/qPR75Hgt6f pic.twitter.com/EXqxl08lZN
— TIME (@TIME) December 5, 2023
Messi’s on-field exploits in 2023 were nothing short of extraordinary. He added an eighth Ballon d’Or to his trophy cabinet, a testament to his enduring brilliance.
Messi had a great year, scoring 41 goals and providing 26 assists for club and country. He scored 21 goals and provided 20 assists for PSG and won the Golden Ball award with 7 goals and 3 assists in the FIFA World Cup.
Why Lionel Messi is TIME's Athlete of the Year https://t.co/9Fj13nyldY pic.twitter.com/ySp5LtkXSK
— TIME (@TIME) December 5, 2023
In 2022-23, Messi won the French Supercup and Ligue 1 titles with PSG. He also won his first FIFA World Cup with Argentina.
Messi’s influence extends beyond the soccer field. His earnings in 2023 amounted to a whopping 0 million, with millions coming from on-field contributions and millions from off-field endeavors, including endorsements.
This off-field success is a testament to Messi’s well-rounded legacy that goes beyond the soccer pitch.
EXCLUSIVE: @Time’s 2023 Athlete of the Year is Lionel Messi. pic.twitter.com/DGC3Vbm1Iy
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) December 5, 2023
Athletes who have significantly impacted their sport and beyond are honored as Time’s Athlete of the Year.
Messi was chosen after a rigorous procedure that included a global panel of experts in athletics and a democratic three-way voting process that involved the public, the World Athletics Family, and the World Athletics Council.
Messi’s victory is evidence of both his unique talent and the world’s appreciation of his influence.
Messi’s influence goes beyond mere statistics. His consistency, longevity, and extraordinary skills have set new benchmarks in soccer, inspiring a generation of young athletes.
His selection as Athlete of the Year for 2023 is a celebration of his influence and impact on the broader sports community and society.
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The response to Messi’s crowning as Time’s Athlete of the Year has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans, peers, and the sports community at large have united in celebrating Messi’s well-deserved recognition.
Social media platforms have been flooded with congratulatory messages, testimonials of admiration, and a collective acknowledgment of Messi’s indelible mark on the beautiful game.
First ever football player to be named as "The Best Athlete of the Year" by Time's magazine ⭐🇦🇷
Lionel Messi is really bringing revolution in the football world. This man creates new history. 🐐 pic.twitter.com/TOj5g3uvO5
— SK10 𓃵🇵🇸 (@SK10_Football) December 5, 2023
Lionel Messi’s journey to being Time’s Athlete of the Year is a testament to the enduring power of excellence, both on and off the field.
As 2023 draws to a close, Messi’s legacy stands as a beacon of inspiration, urging athletes and fans alike to strive for greatness.
