Lionel Messi is undoubtedly one of the most decorated players in the history of soccer, having achieved numerous milestones and records throughout his illustrious career. The Argentine superstar has not only dominated the sport but has also solidified his place among the greatest athletes of the 21st century, as recognized by ESPN.
One of Messi's most remarkable feats is his goal-scoring prowess, with an impressive tally of 672 goals for Barcelona, making him the all-time leading goal scorer for the club. In LaLiga, Messi has netted 474 goals, setting another record for the most goals scored in the league. Additionally, he holds the record for the most LaLiga assists with 192 to his name.
One of the standout moments in Messi's career was in 2012 when he set a Guinness World Record for the most official goals in a calendar year, scoring an incredible 91 goals. His consistency and skill have also been evident in his 36 LaLiga hat tricks, showcasing his ability to single-handedly change the course of a game.
Aside from his individual achievements, Messi has also enjoyed team success, winning numerous titles with Barcelona, including 10 LaLiga championships, 7 Copa del Rey titles, and 4 Champions League titles. His impact on the field has been recognized with 17 appearances in the FIFA FIFPRO World XI and 8 Ballon d'Or awards, cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time.
On the international stage, Messi has continued to shine, leading Argentina to victory in two Copa América tournaments and winning two FIFA World Cup Golden Ball awards. While a World Cup title has eluded him so far, his contributions to the sport have been invaluable, earning him 3 Best FIFA Men's Player awards and 3 UEFA Super Cup goals.
For the latest news, analysis, scores, and schedules on Lionel Messi and the world of soccer, fans can visit the ESPN soccer hub page to stay updated on the latest developments in the sport.