Surprise ! The world No. 1 for the year 2023 is…

A major global media outlet has elected the best footballer of the year for 2023.

If the Ballon d’Or remains the supreme individual distinction for the great champions of world football, other renowned media can praise football stars to salute their exploits.

This is the case with Time magazine. Throughout its history, the famous American magazine has not hesitated to highlight football stars, like Kylian Mbappé.

Time reveals its number 1

Time elects the best footballer each calendar year. And for 2023, it is Lionel Messi who was acclaimed by the American media. Although the native of Rosario won the World Cup with Argentina at the end of 2023, this honorary title could not escape him. Already winner of an eighth France Football Ballon d’Or, Messi is reaping the fruits of this coronation with his selection.

Time thus published the front page of its edition with “Athlete of the Year” on the cover. Arriving at Inter Miami last summer after two years at Paris Saint-Germain, Lionel Messi has had an exceptional impact on the other side of the Atlantic, both on and off the pitch. At the age of 36, the most successful player in history has not finished expanding his showcase.