Lionel Messi was named FIFA player of the year, after winning his maiden World Cup title with Argentina in Qatar
The 35-year-old forward scored two goals in the World Cup final, which the Albiceleste won on penalties against France following a 3-3 draw after extra time.
Messi beat French forwards Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema to the prize.
He scored 27 goals in 49 games for club and country in 2021-22.
“It’s amazing. It’s been a tremendous year and it’s an honour for me to be here and win this award. Without my team-mates I wouldn’t be here,” the Argentine said at the ceremony when accepting his award.
“I achieved the dream I had been hoping for for so long. Very few people can achieve that and I have been lucky to do so.”
Barcelona’s Alexia Putellas was named women’s player of the year.
