Lionel Messi has been crowned as the FIFA Ballon d'Or 2012 after his record-breaking year over Barcelona teammate Andres Iniesta and Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
Messi received 41.6% of the votes polled, Cristiano Ronaldo took 23.68% in second while Andres Iniesta tallied 10.91% in third.
Messi, as always humble, dedicated the award to his teammates but singled out fellow nominee Andres Iniesta for particular praise. Leo was clearly nervous to be on stage but expressed his satisfaction at winning his fourth consecutive Ballon d'Or. He also showed gratitude to girlfriend Antonella and revealed his delight at having a beautiful son with her, Thiago.
Messi said upon receiving the award, "To tell you the truth this is really quite unbelievable. The fourth award that I have had is just too great for words.
"I would like to recognise my other colleagues from Barcelona. Andres, it has been great to train and play alongside you.
"I would also like to recognise all of my friends in the Argentina national team, everyone that has worked with me, coaches and staff and my family and my friends. Also my wife and my son. Thank you."
One of the highlights of Messi's sporting year was his five goals in one game in the Champions League against Bayer Leverkusen, an unforgettable evening for the Argentine.
Messi is the first player in history to win the Ballon d'Or four times consecutively and his achievement is a further indication that he will be remembered as one of the greatest players of all time.
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اینجانب سیدخلیل مرتضوی وعموزاده عزیزم سیدسعیدرضوی در مورخه 16/6/1394
