Lionel Messi returned to Paris after his time at PSG and won the Ballon d'Or 2023.

With this victory, the famous Argentine player extended his record by winning his eighth prestigious award from France Football magazine, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo by three. The event at the Châtelet Theater was memorable as Rosario gave a moving speech that included a tribute to Diego Maradona's birthday. Interestingly, Joan Laporta, president of Barcelona, was present at the same place. There were rumors of a possible meeting between 'Leo' and the executive, but later the South American denied this information.