Lionel Messi is nearing the end of his historic soccer career, but his legacy is cemented.

He played his last match for the Argentina national team earlier this month in an emotional farewell. The Albiceleste finished second in this summer's World Cup, led by eight goals from Messi. He became the tournament's all-time leading scorer during the competition, but was eventually surpassed by Kylian Mbappé.

Messi, 39, continues to play for Inter Miami CF and break records. He became an icon through his career at FC Barcelona, where he racked up countless awards and trophies. Messi spent a few seasons at Paris Saint-Germain before David Beckham recruited him to follow in his footsteps and join Major League Soccer.

While Mbappé, Lamine Yamal and Harry Kane might be the favorites for this year's men's Ballon d'Or, which will be given out on Monday, Oct. 26, Messi is also among the 30 finalists.

He has made his mark on the trophy that will be hard to match.

How many Ballon d'Or trophies has Messi won?

Messi has won a record eight Ballon d'Or awards, including four straight from 2009-2012.

• 2009 - FC Barcelona

• 2010 - FC Barcelona

• 2011 - FC Barcelona

• 2012 - FC Barcelona

• 2015 - FC Barcelona

• 2019 - FC Barcelona

• 2021 - FC Barcelona/Paris Saint-Germain

• 2023 - Paris Saint-Germain/Inter Miami