Lothar Matthäus is a well-known former German football player who played for more than 20 years. He frequently offers advice on how to succeed in both sports and life. He is well-known for his leadership on the field and his perceptive commentary off it.

Matthäus famously talked about how to become a great soccer player by focusing on impact and results. He believes that players must first establish their worth by producing observable results on the field, like goals or vital assists. These accomplishments are crucial because they establish a player's reputation and level of influence in the sport.

A player's capacity to significantly impact games and their career becomes more apparent once they have established a successful track record. This could entail motivating teammates, creating creative playing methods, or guiding teams to triumph in crucial games. These kinds of contributions not only raise a player's profile but also strike a chord with both fans and other athletes.

Players' receipt of prestigious honors like the Ballon d'Or, which annually honors the best football player in the world, represents the pinnacle of this journey. Receiving such honors shows that the player has improved the game over time and produced results on a regular basis.

Consider creating a sandcastle on the beach as an example. The first step is to collect enough sand to create the base, which is similar to getting results in sports. Then, as you begin building your castle's walls and towers, you start to notice how your work is leaving a distinctive mark on the surrounding terrain (much like making a difference). When people eventually acknowledge and appreciate your castle as one of the most striking on the beach (akin to receiving a prize like the Ballon d'Or), it will be evident that your efforts and ingenuity have paid off.

Aspiring athletes are thus encouraged by Matthäus's remarks to prioritize consistent advancement and significant contributions over merely pursuing notoriety or honors.