'Robert, You Deserve This Award': Messi To Lewandowski After Winning Ballon d'Or

Last year, Ballon dOr was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and thus, Lewandowski who scored a record 41 goals in a single Bundesliga season wasn't conferred with the award.

Images: AFP | Twitter/@francefootball

Lionel Messi won his seventh Ballon d'Or on Tuesday, beating Robert Lewandowski and Jorginho. The Argentine striker said that Lewandowski should have got the award in 2020 but was deprived. 

Last year, France football, the organisers of Ballon dOr had canceled the awards due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and thus, Lewandowski who scored a record 41 goals in a single Bundesliga season wasn't conferred with the award.

Lionel Messi, in his Ballon d'Or acceptance speech said that the Bayern Munich player deserved to win the award in 2020. “I would like to mention Robert Lewandowski, it’s been a real honour to compete with you. Everyone knows and we agree that you were the winner last year. I think France Football should award you your 2020 Ballon d’Or – you deserve it and you should have it at home," said Messi. 

HERE IS THE WINNER!

SEVEN BALLON D’OR FOR LIONEL MESSI! #ballondor pic.twitter.com/U2SywJmruC

— Ballon d'Or #ballondor (@francefootball) November 29, 2021

Lewandowski, who won the striker of the year award is also having a great season in 2021 so far, but Messi won a Copa America final with Argentina this year, which might have give him the edge ahead of Robert Lewandowski. 

“I think Robert Lewandowski had a great year. Year after year, he improves and shows the excellent striker he is, as well as his ability to score goals. This year he was awarded as the top scorer. Of course he can certainly aspire to that level next year, thanks to his way of being on the pitch. And in addition, he plays for a big club,"said Messi.