Updated On: 28 February, 2023 06:26 PM IST | Geneva | AP
Messi was named the best men`s player on Monday after leading Argentina to last year`s World Cup title in Qatar, with Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema in third place after a standout season helping Madrid to another Champions League title

Real Madrid`s David Alaba walks off the pitch while he is substituted by Real Madrid`s Nacho after being injured during the Champions League, round of 16, first leg soccer match between Liverpool and Real Madrid at the Anfield stadium in Liverpool, England, Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023. (Pic Courtesy: AP)
Real Madrid defender David Alaba was racially abused on social media after voting for Lionel Messi, and Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic accused FIFA of disrespect on Tuesday in fallout from the soccer body`s annual awards ceremony.
Messi was named the best men`s player on Monday after leading Argentina to last year`s World Cup title in Qatar, with Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema in third place after a standout season helping Madrid to another Champions League title.