During the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony, Lionel Messi, the 8th-time winner of the award, took a heartfelt moment to pay tribute to the legendary Diego Maradona. Messi’s touching words resonated with the audience, celebrating Maradona’s birthday in a room filled with football enthusiasts.

Messi, who clinched his 8th Ballon d’Or, emphasized the significance of acknowledging Maradona’s enduring legacy in the world of football. He conveyed his birthday wishes to Maradona, expressing that there couldn’t be a more fitting occasion to honor the Argentine legend.

As Messi eloquently put it, “Today I would like to focus on Diego (Maradona). There is no better place to wish him a happy birthday than in a place where football lovers are so abundant.” October 30 marked the birthday of Diego Maradona, a football icon who continues to inspire and be remembered by fans worldwide.

Messi’s heartfelt tribute to Maradona added a poignant touch to an already monumental evening, reinforcing the enduring impact of the sport’s legends.

“Wherever you are, this is also for you. Happy birthday, Diego.” 🥹

Lionel Messi pays tribute to Diego Maradona.#BallonDor    | #Messi𓃵pic.twitter.com/QSEpLMIiCu

— İ (@leo_goat_messi) October 30, 2023

Here is the highlights video of all the goals and assists that Messi provided for Argentina to win the World Cup in 2022.