Messi’s world hat-trick

Tuesday, 10/01/2012

Lionel Messi is the world's best player for a third successive year.

The Barcelona forward has collected the prestigious Ballon d'Or ahead of team mate Xavi and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi, 24, and his two nearest challengers were also in a FIFPro World team that included Nemanja Vidic and Wayne Rooney of Manchester United.

Barcelona's Pep Guardiola was named coach of the year but United boss Sir Alex Ferguson received a special award for his contributions and success in football.

Full team Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Dani Alves (Barcelona), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Nemanja Vidic (Man United), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Xavi (Barcelona), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Wayne Rooney (Man United).

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