Barcelona’s Argentine ace has surpassed Brazilian hero Pele’s goals record for club and country in a calendar year.
Messi hit two against Mallorca in a 4-2 win to take his 2012 tally to 76, nine behind German Gerd Muller’s all-time mark.
Pele’s best yearly return was 75 with Santos and Brazil in 1958.
Barca coach Tito Vilanova said: “Leo’s records are spectacular.
“It’s spectacular when you think that he scores so many goals.
“Some players reach these numbers in seven or eight seasons, he does it in one. And most of his goals are great goals.”
Messi’s seventh double of the season increased his league-leading tally to 15 goals. He has 20 in all competitions this term.