22nd June 2023
The prize is given by popular American broadcast TV station, ABC.
The former Barcelona and PSG star player has enjoyed a stellar campaign in recent times
Messi lifted the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, scoring seven goals and registering three assists.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner also scored twice in the final against France at the Lusail Iconic Stadium.
His performance has gotten him a nomination in the ESPY Best Championship Performance category. Other candidates in the category are Nikola Jokic (NBA), Rose Zhang (LPGA) and Leon Edwards (UFC).
He was also nominated in the best athlete category alongside the likes of Aaron Judge (Baseball), Patrick Mahomes (NFL) and Nikola Jokic (NBA).
The 35-year-old is also a nominee for the Best Soccer Player category alongside Aitana Bonmati, Erling Haaland, and Sophia Smith.
Messi won the best international athlete award at the ESPY back in 2015.
