By Enoch 
Cristiano Ronaldo has voiced his opinion that Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior was unfairly denied the 2024 Ballon d’Or, which was awarded to Manchester City’s Rodri. Speaking at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards, Ronaldo expressed his disappointment, stating, “In my opinion, he deserved to win the Ballon d’Or. It was unfair, I say it here in front of everybody.“
Vinicius’s Stellar Year
Vinicius had an exceptional year, helping Real Madrid secure both the LaLiga and Champions League titles. He scored crucial goals, including one in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund. Throughout the season, his performances were consistent, showcasing his skill, speed, and creativity on the field. Despite his achievements, the Ballon d’Or went to Rodri, who led Manchester City to a Premier League title and played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory.
Ronaldo’s Critique
Ronaldo criticized the decision, arguing that Vinicius’s contributions to Real Madrid and his performance in the Champions League should have earned him the prestigious award. “They gave it to Rodri, he deserved it too, but I think they should have given it to Vinicius because he won the Champions League,” Ronaldo added. He emphasized that individual accolades should reflect the player’s impact on the most crucial stages of the competition.
Fan Reactions
The decision has sparked debate among football fans and analysts. While some agree with Ronaldo, others believe that Rodri’s achievements also merit the award. Vinicius, however, was recognized with the FIFA Best Player of the Year award and the Player of the Year award at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards. Social media platforms were flooded with comments, with many fans expressing their support for Vinicius and sharing Ronaldo’s sentiment.
Support for Vinicius
Many fans and fellow players have rallied behind Vinicius, praising his remarkable season. They highlighted his key role in Real Madrid’s successes and his ability to perform under pressure. Several football legends also voiced their opinions, supporting Ronaldo’s view and advocating for a more transparent and inclusive voting process for the Ballon d’Or.
Rodri’s Achievements
Despite the controversy, many acknowledge Rodri’s impressive contributions to Manchester City and the Spanish national team. His consistent performances, leadership qualities, and ability to control the midfield were pivotal in securing major titles for his clubs and country. Supporters of Rodri argue that his all-around game and influence on his team’s success justify his Ballon d’Or win.
Ronaldo’s Support for Vinicius
Ronaldo praised Vinicius’s performance and expressed his admiration for the young forward’s career. “I really love the way they do their career, [Jude] Bellingham, Lamine [Yamal]. Now, this young generation, Vinicius, they do a fantastic job,” Ronaldo said. He emphasized the importance of recognizing young talents and providing them with the support and encouragement needed to reach their full potential.
The Ballon d’Or Selection Process
The Ballon d’Or selection process has often been a topic of controversy. Critics argue that the voting system, which involves journalists from around the world, can sometimes overlook deserving candidates. There have been calls for reforms to ensure a more equitable and transparent process, possibly involving players and coaches in the voting.
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Final Thoughts
Cristiano Ronaldo’s comments have reignited the debate over the fairness of the Ballon d’Or selection process. While opinions are divided, there is no denying Vinicius’s outstanding contributions to football this past year. As the discussion continues, it will be interesting to see how future awards are perceived by players, fans, and the football community. Both Vinicius and Rodri have had stellar seasons, and their performances will continue to inspire young players around the world.
