Vinicius Junior broke his silence, Rodri defeated him and won the Ballon d'Or 2024 title

After finishing second for the men's Ballon d'Or award, Brazil and Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has broken his silence on being overlooked for the top prize. Manchester City midfielder Rodri has been named the 2024 Men's Ballon d'Or winner following his outstanding performances during the 2023-24 season in which he helped his club secure a fourth consecutive English Premier League title. Rodri also played a key role for the Spanish national team, contributing to their victory at Euro 2024 in Germany, where they beat England 2–1 in July. He was chosen Player of the Tournament. The 28-year-old defensive midfielder played a key role last season, providing defensive stability as well as vital passes for both his club and country, providing a total of 14 assists in all competitions.

Additionally, Rodri scored 10 goals during the 2023–24 season. With this win, he became the first Premier League player to receive the Ballon d'Or since Cristiano Ronaldo while at Manchester United in 2008.

After Rodri won the award, Vinicius, 24, who is known for his fight against racism in sport as well as his spectacular, match-winning performances on the football pitch, took the X and wrote, “I would do it if They are not ready 10x if I have to.

EU ferry by 10x for precision. This is not any preparation.

– Vinnie Jr (@vinijr) 28 October 2024

While it's not entirely clear what the striker is aiming to do “10 times”, the frustration and resilience in Vinicius is quite evident and there's no doubt that he's determined to continue scoring goals, winning trophies, and supporting important social causes. Will be excited to stand up for. Most especially racism, when necessary. Over the years, there have been instances of footballers receiving racist comments from football fans and their fight against this has been well appreciated and supported by the football and wider sporting community.

Vinicius' teammate at Real Madrid and the English midfielder finished third in the Ballon d'Or race.
Meanwhile, Barcelona Femeni player Etana Bonamati won the Women's Ballon d'Or for the second time in a row.

Additionally, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti received the Johan Cruyff Trophy as men's coach of the year, while former Chelsea coach Emma Hayes took home the women's award after leading the USA to Olympic gold this summer. Real Madrid was also recognized as Men's Club of the Year.

Barcelona wonder kid and Spanish winger, Lamine Yamal, was awarded the Copa Trophy for the best men's player under 21, while Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez won the Lev Yashin Trophy for the second consecutive time.