Beckham drops huge Ballon d'Or verdict! Messi gets a powerful endorsement
David Beckham has no doubts about who deserves football's biggest individual prize.
Details: Speaking after Inter Miami's Campeones Cup triumph, Beckham made a strong case for Lionel Messi in the 2026 Ballon d'Or race. The former England captain stressed that Messi's impact at the World Cup, despite being 39 years old, was something almost impossible to replicate and said the Argentine was probably the best player at the tournament.
Beckham pointed out that Messi had an incredible year and managed to influence virtually every World Cup match at an age when almost every other elite footballer has already stepped away from the highest level. In his view, that alone makes the Argentine fully deserving of another Ballon d'Or.
"There's no one at 39 years old doing that and at that level. He deserves to be considered for the Ballon d'Or. In my opinion, he should win it," Beckham said. He also acknowledged the strength of the competition, mentioning Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham among the other outstanding candidates.
It is worth noting that Messi finished the 2026 World Cup with eight goals and four assists as Argentina reached a second consecutive final. He also remains the record eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and has received his 17th nomination for the prestigious award. In the 2026 MLS season, the Inter Miami captain has recorded 19 goals and 13 assists.
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Steven Perez
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