FC Barcelona’s Leonel Messi was again crowned the best futbol player in the world after receiving his unprecedented fourth Golden Ball. In this year’s competition he beat out Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo (winner in 2008), along with teammate Andres Iniesta. With this award Messi eclipses legendary players Johan Cruyff, Marco Van Basten and midfielder Michel Platini, who won the award three times.

The Argentinian born superstar broke all records last year. With 50 goals in La Liga 2011/2012, he beat Ronaldo as the top scorer and was also the Golden Boot winner. He became the top scorer in official matches in the history of the Catalan club (233 goals on March 20, 2012) and broke the record for goals scored in a League season Champions (14).

Messi also managed to score 91 goals in a calendar year, surpassing the record previously held by ‘Torpedo’ Müller in 1972, with 85 points. In 2012 Barcelona only won the Copa del Rey, but his  participation turned out to be decisive in every game.

“The truth is that it’s amazing to receive this award, and for it to be the fourth in a row is impressive. I want to thank my teammates in Barcelona, because without them it would have been impossible,” said Messi upon accepting his award.

Messi had words of admiration for his teammate and rival for the award Andres Iniesta. “To train and play every day with you is a lesson. I also want to share this award with my colleagues from Argentina and the people who voted for me, and my coaches,” he said.

Minutes before the trophy presentation, Messi recognized that 2012 has been a great
year. With this win he sets himself apart after sharing three awards win with the Dutch Johan Cruyff (1971, 1973, 1974) and Marco
Van Basten (1988, 1989, 1992), and France’s Michel Platini (1982, 1983,
1983).

Messi, who admitted he was “nervous”, had a message for those closest to him. “I want to thank my family and friends and, finally, and most importantly, my wife and my son, that’s the best thing that life has given me,” he concluded.