The 2023 Ballon d’Or was presented to Karim Benzema on 30 October 2023 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. This was the first time the award was presented since the 2020 Ballon d’Or was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Benzema, who plays for Spanish club Real Madrid, was the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, having won the award in 2020.

The Ballon d’Or is an annual award presented by France Football to the best male player in the world. It is one of the most prestigious awards in football and is seen as a symbol of excellence in the sport. The award was first presented in 1956 and has been won by some of the greatest players in the history of the game, including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Diego Maradona.

Benzema has been one of the most consistent players in the world over the past decade. He has been a key player for Real Madrid since joining the club in 2009, helping them to win four Champions League titles and numerous other trophies. He has also been an important player for the French national team, helping them to win the 2018 World Cup.

Benzema’s success in 2023 was the culmination of a remarkable year for the player. He scored 28 goals in all competitions for Real Madrid, helping them to win the La Liga title and reach the Champions League final. He also scored four goals in the Champions League, including a crucial goal in the semi-final against Chelsea. He was also an important part of the French national team, helping them to reach the final of the European Championship.

Benzema’s success in 2023 was recognised by France Football, who presented him with the Ballon d’Or. The award was presented to him by France Football president Jacques Vendroux, who said: “Karim Benzema is a great player who has had an incredible year. He has been an important part of Real Madrid’s success and a key player for the French national team. He is a worthy winner of the Ballon d’Or.”

The award was presented to Benzema in front of a packed audience at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. The ceremony was attended by some of the biggest names in football, including Messi, Ronaldo, and Maradona. After receiving the award, Benzema said: “It is an honour to receive this award. I would like to thank my family, my teammates, and everyone who has supported me throughout my career. I am very proud to be the winner of the 2023 Ballon d’Or.”

Benzema’s win was the ninth time a Real Madrid player has won the Ballon d’Or, and the first time since Ronaldo in 2017. It was also the first time a French player has won the award since Zinedine Zidane in 1998.

The 2023 Ballon d’Or was an important moment in football history, as it recognised the achievements of one of the greatest players of the modern era. Karim Benzema is a worthy winner of the award and his success is a testament to his hard work and dedication.