Lionel Messi is arguably one of the best players in modern football and one of the greatest footballers ever. The Argentine forward is an exceptional talent, winning some of the most famous awards in the sport.

Following his promotion to Barcelona’s first team, he quickly became a reliable player. He continued his fine form and eventually wrote his name on the game’s history books. He has won some of the biggest football awards, including the Ballon d’Or, FIFA Men’s Best Player, European Golden Shoe, etc.

Messi first Ballon d’Or age – how old was he?

Lionel Messi has won over seven Ballon d’Or awards throughout his career. He received his first award at 22 in the 2009–10 football season.

He won the award with the biggest voting margin in each trophy’s history.

Read: Every Lionel Messi award you should know 

During that season, Barcelona became the first club to achieve the sextuple, winning six trophies in a single year which includes the LaLiga, UEFA Champions League, Copa del Rey, FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, etc.

Lionel Messi Ballon d’Or awards, ages and years – the timeline

1. 2009 – 22 years 

2. 2010 – 23 years 

3. 2011 – 24 years 

4. 2012 – 25 years 

5. 2015 – 28 years

6. 2019 – 32 years 

7. 2021 – 34 years 

How many Ballon d’Or did Messi have at 24? He won three awards. This was in the 2010-11 football season. The Argentine edged Cristiano Ronaldo and Xavi Hernandez to the trophy.

At 23, Messi had won two Ballon d’Or. All these trophies were achieved during his time at Barcelona.