Manchester City’s midfield dynamo, Rodri, grabbed the coveted Ballon d’Or award, becoming the first Premier League player since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 to win it. Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati snagged the women’s Ballon d’Or for the second year in a row, and this year’s ceremony had its fair share of drama—Real Madrid’s delegation was noticeably absent, choosing to boycott after learning Vinicius Jr. wouldn’t take home the trophy.
HERE IS THE 2024 BALLON D’OR RANKING! #ballondor @ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/3aPyAe5yAr
— Ballon d’Or (@ballondor) October 28, 2024
Rodri’s Journey to Ballon d’Or Glory
Rodri’s road to the Ballon d’Or is a story of grit, perseverance, and a touch of elegance. Despite a severe ACL injury against Arsenal in September, his impact over the 2023-24 season was undeniable. He claimed a fourth Premier League title with Manchester City and lifted the Euro 2024 trophy with Spain. Adding to the accolades, he was crowned Best Player of the Euro tournament, despite having to leave the final game early due to injury.
One of the most striking stats? Rodri went 74 games unbeaten across club and national matches, a run that only ended in last season’s FA Cup final against Manchester United. Not bad for a defensive midfielder, right?
Aitana Bonmati’s Dominance Continues
For the women’s award, Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati stood tall. She didn’t just win; she dominated. Bonmati shone in both Spain’s La Liga F and the Women’s Champions League, helping Barcelona clinch their third title in four years. This back-to-back Ballon d’Or Feminin win underscores her place among the world’s best in women’s football.
Meanwhile, fellow Barcelona players Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo rounded out the top three, further solidifying the club’s hold on the women’s game.
Real Madrid’s Absence and Vinicius Jr.’s Response
Real Madrid’s absence was loud. With their players passed over for the top spot, the club opted not to attend the Paris ceremony. Vinicius Jr. later posted, “I’ll do it 10 times if I have to. They’re not ready.” Though Real Madrid was named men’s club of the year, they made it clear they felt overlooked.
Other Highlights of the Night
Alongside Rodri and Bonmati, the ceremony spotlighted several stars:
- Kopa Trophy: Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal bagged this under-21 award after his stellar performances, including becoming the youngest goalscorer in European Championship history.
- Yashin Trophy: Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez, playing for Aston Villa, was again named the world’s best goalkeeper. His Copa America performances and consistent showings for Villa earned him this honor.
While Rodri’s win was groundbreaking as the first defensive midfielder since 1956 to secure the Ballon d’Or, the evening highlighted both new and enduring legacies in football.
