Lionel Messi admits Robert Lewandowski deserved to win Ballon d’Or after pipping Bayern striker to award
LIONEL MESSI picked up a record seventh Ballon d’Or - and then said Robert Lewandowski deserved one too.
The Argentinian great scooped the coveted award as the world’s best player ahead of the prolific Bayern Munich striker.
Lewandowski was tipped by some to cause an upset in Paris, but had to settle for the nod as world's best striker.
And Paris Saint-Germain star Messi paid tribute to his rival as he collected the gong from his ex-Barcelona team-mate Luis Suarez.
He said: "I would like to mention Robert Lewandowski, it’s been a real honour to compete with you.
“Everyone knows and we agree that you were the winner last year.
“I think France Football should award you your 2020 Ballon d’Or - you deserve it and you should have it at home."
The award was not given out last year after Covid restrictions forced organisers to cancel the annual event.
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Messi took home the trophy the last time it was handed out - making it back-to-back wins for the first time since 2015 and 2016.
Lewandowski has been notching some staggering goal-scoring statistics in recent years.
The 33-year-old found the net 48 times last season - the sixth consecutive year he has posted 40 or more goals.
This term he has already hit 25 goals in just 20 Bayern appearances as the Bundesliga giants sit pretty in the German top flight.
Messi sensationally moved from Barca to the French capital in a year that saw him win his first international trophy at the Copa America.
Chelsea midfielder Jorginho finished third behind the two goal-getters after a year that saw him with both the Champions League and Euro 2020.
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