Ana Maria Markovic aka the ‘world’s most beautiful player’ has given her thoughts on who will be crowned as the best footballer in the world, but the pick may raise the eyebrows of her favourite star
Messi is the bookies’ favourite to win the 2023 Ballon d’Or
Ana Maria Markovic aka ‘the world’s most beautiful footballer’ has touted Lionel Messi to win his eighth Ballon d’Or title.
The Grasshoppers star was asked her thoughts on who she believes will win the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or titles. Markovic picked Barcelona icon Alexia Putellas to be crowned the women’s player of the year again, after another great season for the Catalans.
However, Markovic’s prediction that Messi can win the prestigious individual award is particularly interesting, as she has previously suggested Cristiano Ronaldo is the better of the iconic pair. Nevertheless, the Croatian star thinks the Argentina captain will add to his golden collection, after winning his country’s third World Cup.
When asked on social media who she believes will win the victorious recipients of both the men’s and the women’s major prize, she simply replied “Putellas and Messi”. The Paris Saint-Germain maestro is the bookies’ favourite to win the player of the year award in 2023.
He scored seven goals and contributed three assists during Argentina’s unforgettable run. Considering the fact Markovic has often held Ronaldo in higher regard than Messi, her decision could perhaps be described as a surprise.
“[Luka] Modric is definitely a great role model for me,” Markovic said to 20min. “He is a world footballer and represents Croatia.
“There are many good players among the women, such as [Ramona] Bachmann. But my absolute favourite player is Cristiano Ronaldo because he’s just so disciplined.
Ana Maria Markovic plays for Grasshopper in Switzerland
“I think it’s super important that you give your all in sport and have a good mindset like him.” Considering the fact Markovic has 1.8million followers on Instagram, her opinion could potentially convert even more people towards Team Messi and Team Putellas.
While her admiration of Ronaldo will never decrease, she may just be tempted to herald Messi as the victor in their long running rivalry.
By Patrick Austen-Hardy
