by FRANCO PANIZO
From an individual stand-point, Lionel Messi has enjoyed a dream year, helping Barcelona win an unprecedented six trophies, and those achievements helped earn him the ultimate individual award.
Messi was named the FIFA World Player of the Year on Monday, just two days after scoring the game-winning goal in the FIFA Club World Cup final. Messi, who has impressed soccer spectators all year long with his precise dribbling and superb finishing, received the award at a ceremony in Zurich, Switzerland.
The 22-year-old won the award ahead of Kaka, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and 2008's winner, Cristiano Ronaldo. Save for Kaka, all the finalists made the year's best XI.
The XI, which is voted on by members of FIFPro, consists of Iker Casillas, Daniel Alves, John Terry, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Steven Gerrard, Cristiano Ronaldo, Fernando Torres and Lionel Messi.
Brazilian star Marta was also named the FIFA women's player of the year for a fourth consecutive time at the ceremony.
What do you think about Messi being named player of the year? Think someone else was more deserving? What Messi moment from this year was your favorite? Agree with the best XI?
Share your thoughts below.