Lionel Messi in 2012

"Good things come in small packages" can rightly be said about this short statured yet destructive Argentina and Barcelona forward Lionel Andres Messi. Yet again, he has won the 2011 FIFA Ballon d'Or beating Real Madrid's Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, at a ceremony in Zurich. He won the World Player of the Year award for the third time in a row, thus becoming the first player since Michel Platini (1983-1985) to achieve this remarkable feat.

He received Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year in 2009 and 2010. 2011 had been a pleasant year for Messi, earning him several recognitions. He won the 2010-11 UEFA Best Player in Europe Award. Messi, who has drawn comparisons to Diego Maradona because of his artful playing style and his short height, was also named one of Time magazine's people of 2011.

He has won five La Liga titles and three Champions League titles. In 2006, he became the youngest Argentine to play in the FIFA World Cup. His first international honour, an Olympic gold medal, came in 2008 in Beijing with Argentina winning the Olympics football tournament. In 2011, Messi scored 59 goals in 70 club games for Barcelona. Though he has been a superb player in club games, his performance at international level has been quite disappointing having scored only 19 goals in 66 games.

The year 2012 for Messi:

Born on June 24, 1987, Messi belongs to the sun sign Cancer with ruling number 6. This number is governed by the Planet Venus, which symbolizes love, sympathy and adoration. It also stands for a creative, aesthetic and artistic temperament. He is methodical and systematic in his approach.

He does not like to mess things up. He has an unending curiosity and his greatest joy is to go on learning throughout his life. He is flexible and loves challenges but tends to be impulsive. He is ingenious and witty.

The glorifying moments of 2011 will continue even in this New Year 2012. He will add another feather to his cap. His career will be his top priority and will remain focused all through the year 2012. Unexpected recognitions at work are a strong possibility this year. Travel will also be a main feature, especially in the months of July and August. March will be an important month for him. Dr. Prem Kumar Sharma gives your insight and wisdom for 12 months in 2012. Get guidance and predictions for all important aspects of your life like love, career and money!