Lionel Messi’s story is not simply a tale of a gifted footballer rising to global fame. It is the story of a quiet child ...

The 38-year-old Argentine star — and captain of the MLS Cup champions — has become the first back-to-back MVP in MLS history.

Only seven male players have ever achieved the rare feat since the inception of the Ballon d’Or almost 70 years ago.

The Ballon d’Or remains football’s most coveted individual prize, a level of prestige that only a select few ever reach.