New Delhi: Cristiano Ronaldo has criticised the decision to award the 2024 Ballon d’Or to Manchester City’s Rodri instead of Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards, the Portuguese icon described the call as “unfair” given Vinicius’ stellar season.
Vinicius was instrumental in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League triumphs last term. The Brazilian winger scored 24 goals across competitions, including a crucial strike in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund.
Despite his impact, the prestigious Golden Ball went to Rodri, who guided Manchester City to a fourth straight Premier League title and was pivotal in Spain’s Euro 2024 success.
🚨 “Vinicius Jr deserved the Ballon d’Or”, says Cristiano Ronaldo. ✨ pic.twitter.com/J3lsCPkzqa
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 27, 2024
While praising Rodri’s achievements, Ronaldo made it clear that Vinicius’ role in Madrid’s European glory made him the standout candidate. “They gave it to Rodri, he deserved it too, but I think they should have given it to Vinicius because he won a Champions League,” said Ronaldo, who has lifted the Ballon d’Or five times.
Ronaldo also took a moment to highlight emerging talents in football. He named Vinicius, Jude Bellingham, and Lamine Yamal as players to watch in the coming years. “I love the way they’re building their careers,” he said.
This isn’t the first time Ronaldo has voiced his opinions on the Ballon d’Or. Known for his competitive streak, the former Real Madrid forward has often been vocal about recognising players who deliver on the biggest stages.
The Ballon d’Or winner is decided by a vote from journalists across the top 100 FIFA-ranked countries, often sparking debates over criteria. Ronaldo’s comments have added fuel to the ongoing discussions about what defines the “best” in football.
Vinicius, though falling short of the Ballon d’Or, recently won FIFA’s “The Best” award, cementing his status as one of the game’s brightest stars.
Cristiano Ronaldo criticised the Ballon d’Or decision to overlook Vinicius Jr, calling it unfair given his remarkable role in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League victories, including a key goal in the European final. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
