Messi wins 3rd straight FIFA Golden Ball

Argentina and Barcelona star Lionel Messi has won his third straight Ballon d'Or, matching the record set by the great Michel Platini. Platini handed the award to Messi, 24, who said that it was a "huge honour" to win three times in succession.Messi joins a pantheon of greats to have won the award three times. Along with the aforementioned Platini, Messi joins Dutch sharpshooter Marco Van Basten and Ajax legend Johan Cruyff.The award came in a year in which Messi has helped Barcelona to victories in the Champions League, La Liga, UEFA Super Cup and the World Club Cup.Club team-mate Xavi praised Messi, stating that "he's going to break all the records that exist in this sport. He's going to be one of the best footballers in the history of the sport." This was echoed by Man Utd manager Alex Ferguson, who bracketed Messi with Pele and Cruyff as a true footballing great.Messi himself dedicated his award to Xavi, as well as his international and club team mates, suggesting that without them, the award would not have been possible.In other awards, Pep Guardiola beat Ferguson to be named Coach of the Year. However, Ferguson did win a FIFA presidential award for services to football.Brazil starlet Neymar won the award for the year's best goal, beating off competition from Messi and Wayner Rooney.See the legends in action. Buy Barcelona and Real Madrid tickets now.Or buy La Liga, Euro 2012 or English Premiership tickets securely online.