Lionel Messi could receive soccer’s highest award: what is the Super Ballon d’Or?

Lionel Messi has been the best soccer player in the world for over 20 years. The countless titles he has won—combined with his unique style of play—have firmly cemented him at the pinnacle of world soccer. Now, the Argentine captain could be in line for the Super Ballon d’Or, a legendary award that has only been handed out once in history.

Messi has already secured his place among the all-time greats. His iconic career with Barcelona, his record eight Ballon d’Or trophies, the World Cup title with Argentina, and numerous other accolades make a strong case for him as the greatest of all time.

What is the Super Ballon d’Or?

The official Ballon d’Or account, which tracks the prestigious award Messi has won more than any other player, recently sparked speculation with a cryptic post referencing the rarest honor in soccer history. The post read:

“In 1989, a player received a trophy no one else had ever earned: the SUPER BALLON D’OR. It was awarded to the best soccer player of the past three decades: Alfredo Di Stéfano. If it were awarded again today… WHO WOULD DESERVE IT?”

The post instantly lit up social media, with fans and analysts alike pointing to Messi as the clear choice to receive this once-in-a-lifetime honor.

Only one player in history—Alfredo Di Stéfano—has ever received the Super Ballon d’Or. If it were to be awarded again, many believe that Messi’s unparalleled career achievements make him the obvious candidate. It would be the ultimate recognition for a player who has not only defined an era but has also consistently been the best in the world for two decades.

Could the Super Ballon d’Or make its return? And if so, is it finally time for Messi to receive the most exclusive trophy in soccer history?