Lionel Messi from Argentina poses with the trophy after being named FIFA World Player of the Year, the first Argentinian to win the accolade.
“First of all I would like to thank all of my colleagues who voted, as it is a huge honour to receive this award,” said a thrilled Messi. It is beautiful to have the recognition of your colleagues from other national teams. I want to say thanks and share this with all of my teammates. This is the best way to end a magnificent year for Barcelona, my teammates and for me, Thanks a lot.”
