Andriy Shevchenko Close to Tears As He Sends Defiant Message on Russian Ukraine War

• 2004 Ballon d'Or winner Andriy Shevchenko paid a wonderful tribute to his fellow Ukrainians at the 2022 Ballon d'Or ceremony
• Ukraine has been war-torn after Russia's decision to invade, and Shevchenko reiterated how proud he was of his countrymen for standing up for themselves
• Shevchenko was on hand in Paris to hand over the women's Ballon d'Or to Barcelona's Alexia Putellas

Ukraine legend Andriy Shevchenko took time to send a hopeful message to his compatriots as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues.

Shevchenko used the platform of the 2022 Ballon d'Or awards at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on October 17 to remind everyone that his nation still needed help.

"It has been a very difficult moment since the war started. I am so proud of how my country defends and fights for their freedom," he said as quoted by Goal.

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"It is very important to remember the war is still going but most important, to stay behind Ukraine and help."

Ukraine has been on the back foot since earlier this year following Russia's invasion.

Reuters reports that at least 30,000 people have lost their lives so far, with approximately 14 million others being displaced from their places of living.

The former AC Milan and Chelsea striker was on stage to award the women's Ballon d'Or, which was won by Barcelona Women's Alexia Putellas for a second year running. She beat Arsenal's Beth Mead and Chelsea's Samantha Kerr.

Shevchenko is a Ballon d'Or winner himself, having claimed the award in 2004 after beating Deco and Ronaldinho.

Benzema invites mother on stage

Sports Brief had earlier reported that Karim Benzema shared his crowning moment as the 2022 Ballon d'Or recipient with his mum and son on stage.

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Benzema became the fifth French player to clinch the coveted individual diadem after edging out competition from Robert Lewandowski, Sadio Mane and Kevin De Bruyne.

The 34-year-old France international enjoyed a stunning 2021-22 campaign, scoring an eyewatering 44 goals in 46 games across all competitions.