Lionel Messi reacts on stage with his trophy as he receives his 8th Ballon d'Or award during the 2023 Ballon d'Or France Football award ceremony at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris on Monday. AFP

Lionel Messi tonight lifted his eighth Ballon d'Or in acknowledgment of his World Cup success with Argentina.

Breaking the record for the most wins by any player, the Argentine forward received the award at a ceremony in Paris on Monday. In his acceptance speech, Messi thanked his teammates, coaches, and family for their support. He also said that he was "honoured and humbled" to receive the award for the eighth time.

"This is a very special moment for me," Messi said. "I'm so grateful to everyone who has helped me along the way. This award is not just for me, it's for all of my teammates, coaches, and family."

Messi's eighth Ballon d'Or win is a testament to his incredible talent and longevity. He is widely considered to be the greatest player of all time, and his latest achievement is just one more feather in his cap.

WAM