Lionel Messi and Alexia Putellas have been awarded this year's 2021 Ballon D'Or during a ceremony night in Paris.
For Messi, the award was a record-extending title as he is two Ballon d'Or ahead of rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Now having seven of the prestigious award, the last of which he won in 2019.
The 34-year-old Messi went on to say:
As for Alexia Putellas, being awarded the Ballon d'Or is a huge milestone in her career.
This year, Putellas had a stellar performance, contributing 37 goals and 27 assists. A well-deserved award in being the best female soccer of the year, ending the year as the best midfielder with her Uefa's Women's Player of The Year, closely edging out fellow teammates Jennifer Hermoso, Chelsea and Sam Kerr.
The 34-year-old Messi went on to say:
"It's incredible to be here again," Messi said. "Two years ago I thought it was the last time. Winning the Copa América was the key."
"I don't know how many years I have left," he added, "but I hope many more."
It was a night to remember as the world's famous names in soccer gathered in celebration.
As for Alexia Putellas, being awarded the Ballon d'Or is a huge milestone in her career.
This year, Putellas had a stellar performance, contributing 37 goals and 27 assists. A well-deserved award in being the best female soccer of the year, ending the year as the best midfielder with her Uefa's Women's Player of The Year, closely edging out fellow teammates Jennifer Hermoso, Chelsea and Sam Kerr. 