Messi receives fourth golden boot award

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Europe

Lionel Messi received his fourth Golden Boot award on Friday for leading all of Europe’s leagues in scoring last season. The 30-year-old Argentine won the prize after netting 37 times for Barcelona.

This fourth award drew the Barcelona forward even with Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo as the award record-holders.

"I have always said that I don't consider myself to be a striker, but I have been lucky enough to always score goals and win individual prizes," the five-time Ballon d'Or winner said after being handed the trophy at a ceremony in Barcelona.

Lionel Messi in action. /VCG Photo

"As I have progressed off the field, I think I have also done so on the pitch. I have improved and added things to my game and I enjoy myself more and more every day as a player."

Messi won the trophy ahead of Bas Dost, who scored 34 goals for Sporting Lisbon last season, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who target 31 times for Borussia Dortmund.

The 30-year-old Messi also led Europe’s league in scoring in 2009-10 (34), 2022-12 (50 goals) and 2012-13 (46 goals).

Messi was presented with the trophy by teammate Luis Suarez, who won the award in 2015-16 with 40. Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets also attended the ceremony in Barcelona.

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