01 January 2023 , 01:00
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Lionel Messi has called 2022 a "year I will never forget" after finally winning the World Cup with his beloved Argentina.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward, 35, led his country to a memorable victory against France in Qatar on December 18. He scored twice in the final - a 3-3 draw - before Emiliano Martinez's heroics in the penalty shootout secured Argentina's third World Cup.
That competition was the one honour that evaded Messi during his career after losing the 2014 final 1-0 to Germany in Brazil. The Argentina skipper has now capped off his glittering career by lifting World Cup and is thankful his dream "finally came true".
"A year I will never forget," Messi wrote on Instagram.
"The dream I always chased finally came true. But that wouldn't be worth anything either if it wasn't because I can share it with a wonderful family, the best one can have, and friends who always supported me and didn't let me stay on the floor every time I fell.
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"I also want to have a very special memory for all the people who follow me... it's amazing to be able to share this path with all of you.
"It would be impossible to get where I came without so much encouragement that I received so much from all the people in my country as from Paris, Barcelona and so many other cities and countries from which I have been receiving love.
Lionel Messi also won his first Ligue 1 title with Paris Saint-Germain in 2022 (Getty Images)Was 2022 the greatest year in Lionel Messi's career? Let us know in the comments below!
"I wish this year was also wonderful for everyone and I wish you all the health and strength to remain happy in 2023. A huge hug to all!"
Winning the World Cup was undoubtedly the highlight of Messi's footballing year, but it wasn't the only trophy he lifted. He also won the Finalissima with Argentina in June, as they defeated European champions Italy 3-0 in front of more than 87,000 fans at Wembley.
Messi also picked up his first two honours with PSG, as he was part of the side that won the Ligue 1 title in May and the Trophee des Champions - also known as the French Super Cup - in July. PSG defeated Nantes 4-0 to win the latter game, with Messi scoring.
Many critics believe Messi has confirmed himself as the greatest footballer of all time - or the 'GOAT' - after Argentina's World Cup triumph. Other candidates include Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego Maradona and Pele. The latter sadly passed away on Thursday.
"I never thought I'd see a better player than Diego Maradona and it's kind of slightly unfair to compare them because they played in different times," said Gary Lineker after the World Cup final. "But I think Messi’s done it through what he's achieved now and his longevity.
"Diego for seven, eight, nine, maybe ten years even was so similar but he [Messi] has done it for nearly two decades. Seven Ballon d'Ors as well. He's done them both in his mid-30s, the two big ones - the Copa America and the World Cup."