FCBARCELONA.CAT

06.12.2009 18:21

Happy and intense day for Messi

Marc Guillén (enviat especial) / Jordi Clos

Leo Messi will probably remember 6th December 2009 as one of the most important days of his life. Today he picked up the Ballon d'Or and had a thoroughly exciting and memorable day.

Messi started everything off with a brilliant display at the Riazor on Saturday night and rather than returning to Barcelona he went straight to Paris where he was to pick up his award. Sunday was a full day and Messi, despite being tired, never stopped smiling.

Thuram

Accompanied by his two brothers and his sister, Messi arrived at the luxurious Hotel George V in París at 03.00, but there was no lie in as at 9.45 they were rushed off to the TF1 studios for the award ceremony. After flicking through the latest edition of France Football, Messi had his first surprise of the day when ex-team mate Lilian Thuram, who played at Barca between 2006 and 2008 popped in to say hello.

Big Moment

The big moment came just after 11.00 when Messi was given his award during the top TF1 programme ‘Teléfoot’. The player was clearly thrilled throughout the proceedings and at the end of the show he took the time out to sign autographs and have photos taken with the audience.

Messi himself took a photo with his family and the trophy on his own mobile phone.

Media attention

Once the ceremony was over, Messi went over to the TF1 central studios where he gave a press conference in front of a multitude of journalists and media representatives. After a few personal interviews, Messi went back to the Hotel for a celebratory lunch with the event organisers.

In a packed day there wasn't much time to linger over the food either and at 16.15 Messi was on his way back to the airport to fly back to Barcelona, tired but happy with the Ballon d'Or under his arm!