Argentina captain Lionel Messi has been named Laureus Sportsman of the Year.

The PSG star takes the award after leading Argentina to their World Cup victory in Qatar.

He said, "Beyond what we achieved, we have to highlight the way we did it; with hard work, comradeship, humility and respect. That's what's important. Many people identified with this team, not only in Argentina. Everyone wants to win but the most important thing is respect."

Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine FA, also accompanied Barcelona legend Messi at the award ceremony.

"After 26 years, the emblem of our national team achieved something he had dreamed of so much, and the team managed to give great joy to all the Argentine people, who were eager to feel proud of their country. They made us proud of our flag. When the team wants the same thing, there is no such thing as impossible," said Tapia.