This archive report was first published on 1 December 2019.
December 1, 2019, marked a significant day in the world of football as Lionel Messi emerged as the bookmakers' favourite to win the 2019 Ballon d'Or award.
According to reports, Messi, a 32-year-old Argentine forward, is set to clinch the prestigious gong for a record sixth time, surpassing his previous wins in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2015.
He faces stiff competition from Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk, who are also in the running for the award.
As reported by Giveme Sport, Messi is the current favourite among bookmakers to win the coveted prize, ahead of Ronaldo and Van Dijk.
With a stellar performance that saw Barcelona coast to domestic wins, Messi is poised to take home the award, according to reports from Spain.
Interestingly, a leaked screenshot on social media revealed the top 10 players for this year's Ballon d'Or, with Messi leading the list with 446 points, followed closely by Van Dijk with 382 points, Mo Salah with 179 points, and Ronaldo with 133 points.
As the world waits with bated breath for the gala of the Ballon d'Or award, one thing is certain - Messi's impressive performance has solidified his position as the bookmakers' favourite to win the award.
