December 06, (THEWILL) – Lionel Messi, the renowned Argentine footballer, has been honoured as the Time Magazine Athlete of the Year for 2023. This recognises Messi’s exceptional skills, remarkable achievements, and significant impact on the world of sports and comes on the back of Messi’s record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or win after his influential move to Inter Miami, which has elevated the profile of football in the United States.
Since joining Inter Miami in July, Messi has made a significant impact on the sport in the US. Time Magazine recognised his ability to turn the US into a “soccer” country, citing increased attendance, ticket prices, merchandise sales, and viewership of Major League Soccer (MLS) games. His arrival has sparked a surge of interest and enthusiasm among American football fans, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Not only has Messi made a profound impact on the growth of soccer in the US, but he has also achieved remarkable success on the field. In his debut season with Inter Miami, Messi scored 11 goals in 14 games across all competitions, helping the team secure their first-ever trophy, the Leagues Cup. His exceptional performances and leadership qualities have earned him a nomination for the MLS MVP award.
Messi’s record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or win in October further solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers in history. It was a recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport and his pivotal role in leading Argentina to victory in the Qatar 2022 World Cup. Messi’s achievements continue to inspire aspiring athletes around the world and cement his legacy as a true sporting icon.
While Messi’s preference was to return to his boyhood club Barcelona, circumstances led him to join Inter Miami. The decision to move to the US instead of the Saudi Pro League, which had also expressed interest in signing him, demonstrates Messi’s belief in the potential of the MLS and his desire to leave a lasting impact on the sport in America.
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Messi has also made headlines for his philanthropic endeavours. As the UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, he has been actively involved in various charitable initiatives, promoting education and healthcare for vulnerable children worldwide. His commitment to giving back to society has earned him admiration and respect, making him an inspiration not just as an athlete but also as a role model.
Being named Time Magazine’s Athlete of the Year is a testament to Messi’s enduring influence and global popularity. His impact extends far beyond the football pitch, transcending borders and captivating hearts worldwide. Messi’s sheer talent, sportsmanship, and humility have endeared him to fans of all ages, and his achievements have solidified his status as an icon in the sports industry.
As the recipient of this esteemed title, Messi joins the ranks of other legendary athletes, LeBron James (2020), Simone Biles (2021), and Aaron Judge (2022), who have left an indelible mark on their respective sports. His selection as Time Magazine’s Athlete of the Year 2023, the first for a non-American, further affirms his exceptional contributions to the world of football and underscores his enduring legacy as one of the greatest athletes of our time.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
