Messi: “This is quite unbelievable”

Barcelona striker Lionel Messi has expressed his happiness after being awarded with the FIFA Ballon d’Or for a fourth consecutive time.

The 25-year-old, who beat off competition from Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo, also paid tribute to his Barça team-mate Andres Iniesta.

“To tell you the truth this is really quite unbelievable. The fourth award that I have received is just too great for word,” Messi said upon receiving his prize.

“I would like to recognise my other colleagues from Barcelona: Iniesta, it has been great to train and play alongside you.”

“I would also like to recognise all of my friends in the Argentine national team.”

“Everyone that has worked with me; coaches, staff and my family and my friends. Also my wife and my son. Thank you.”

The Argentina star was voted as the Best Football player of 2012 with 41.6 per cent of the votes, while Cristiano Ronaldo came second with 23.68% and Iniesta had to settle for a third place with 10.91%.