This archive report was first published on 23 September 2019.
On September 23, 2019, Lionel Messi and Megan Rapinoe made history by taking home the FIFA Men's and Women's Player of the Year awards, respectively.
According to the announcement, Messi edged out Virgil Van Dijk, who had won the UEFA player's award the previous month, to claim the top spot. The Barcelona striker's victory was a surprise to many, but he is now in the running for the coveted Ballon d'Or, which will be announced on December 2.
Meanwhile, Megan Rapinoe won the women's title, beating out fellow World Cup winner Alex Morgan and England's Lucy Bronze. Rapinoe's victory was a testament to her outstanding performance at the World Cup, where she won the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball, and became the face of the tournament for her outspoken views on US president Donald Trump.
Other notable players who were shortlisted for the award included Juventus's forward Cristiano Ronaldo.
