December 21, 2009

Lionel Messi Named FIFA Player of the Year: Barcelona forward Lionel Messi has been chosen FIFA's Footballer of the Year after helping the Lions win a record six trophies over the period. In a vote by captains and head coaches of national teams, Messi received 1,073 votes, Cristiano Ronaldo 352, Xavi 196, Kaka 190 and Andres Iniesta 134. Striker Marta of Brazil won Women's World Player of the Year over English striker Kelly Smith.

posted by rcade to soccer at 04:03 PM - 3 comments

Interesting that all fof the top 5 play for one or the other "Spanish giants." Of course, Kaka and Ronaldo are being recognized for their play for Milan and Manchester United, respectively.

posted by holden at 12:08 AM on December 22, 2009

Its about time...

posted by StarFucker at 12:49 AM on December 22, 2009

Messi is only 22! If he can stay healthy he'll be amazing to watch for years. Messi, Xavi and Iniesta all came through the Barca youth system--think about that in this age of huge money moves (see Kaka and Ronaldo, for instance).

posted by billsaysthis at 11:27 AM on December 22, 2009

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