David Beckham has expressed support for Lionel Messi to claim the Ballon d’Or ahead of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham as this year’s award approaches.
Kane enjoyed a remarkable campaign with Bayern Munich, finding the net 73 times during the season.
Bellingham, meanwhile, has delivered consistent performances since relocating to Real Madrid.
Despite the strong credentials of both players, Beckham has publicly endorsed his own club’s star man.
Messi completed a move to Beckham’s Inter Miami in 2023.
The Argentine is among the contenders for this year’s award, with the possibility of securing an unprecedented ninth Ballon d’Or triumph.
Speaking to Apple TV, Beckham suggested Messi’s recent displays and World Cup contribution make him a deserving nominee.
The former England captain noted that the Argentine’s achievements cannot be attributed to chance, particularly given his status as the tournament’s standout performer.
Beckham described Messi’s year as extraordinary, highlighting the impact the player made at global level despite his age.
According to Beckham, such consistency at 39 years old represents something exceptional.
While acknowledging other candidates including Kane, Mbappé and Bellingham, Beckham declared himself among Messi’s most vocal advocates.
The Ballon d’Or is presented annually by France Football to the world’s finest player.
Messi’s previous victories came in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021 and 2023.