Lionel Messi is considered the best soccer player in the world. He was born in Argentina in 1987 and began playing soccer at the age of 5, first in the streets with friends and later for a local team called Grandoli. Messi currently plays for F.C. Barcelona and is renowned for his individual accolades including winning 5 Ballon d'Or awards and holding records for being the top scorer in the Champions League and domestic leagues over multiple seasons.