The FIFA World Player of the Year Award for this year went to the Barcelona star Lionel Messi. The award is one of the many feathers in the cap which the star player has added to his illustrious career. The award ceremony was a gala event and was held in Zurich. Messi received the prestigious award outdistancing Christiano Ronaldo and Kaka who received the awards on the previous two occasions. He also was head and shoulders above his teammates Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta in voting among captains and coaches of the national team.

The winger had an absolutely glorious year with Barcelona as he won many titles which included the Spanish League and cup and the Champions League. He was also awarded the Ballon D’Or for being the best player in Europe. His extra time goal helped Barcelona to seal the club’s first Club World Cup by beating Estudiantes 2-1. The only trophy eluding Messi now is the world Cup title. The 22-year old Argentine had finished as the runner-up previously for two consecutive years but received 1047 points and was way ahead of Ronaldo and Xavi.

The 2008-09 season saw Messi scoring 38 goals in 51 matches taking all the competitions in account and he has continued with his excellent form on the pitch by scoring 15 goals in 22 matches in this campaign. His incredible performance has ensured Barcelona the top position in La Liga and the club is back in the knockout phase of the Champions League.