Manchester City midfielder Rodri has expressed surprise at Cristiano Ronaldo‘s remarks questioning his selection as the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner.
The Portuguese star had suggested Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior deserved the accolade instead, citing Vinícius’ pivotal role in winning the Champions League and scoring in the final.
Rodri, addressing the comments in an interview with Diario AS, said, “It’s surprising because Ronaldo knows better than anyone how this award works and how the winner is chosen.
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This year, the journalists who vote decided I should win it. These same journalists likely voted for him in the past, and I imagine he agreed with their choice then.”
Real Madrid Boycott Amid Ballon d’Or Controversy
Real Madrid’s players and officials notably boycotted the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris after Rodri’s win over Vinícius Júnior.
The Brazilian forward had been a frontrunner for the award following a standout season where he helped Real Madrid secure a LaLiga and Champions League double.
Vinícius later won FIFA’s The Best Men’s Player Award and was also named Globe Soccer’s Best Men’s Player on December 30.
Rodri’s Remarkable Season
Rodri, 28, claimed the prestigious individual honor after a phenomenal season that saw him lead Manchester City to Premier League glory and help Spain clinch the European Championship.
Despite his achievements, the midfielder sustained a significant setback when he tore his ACL in September.
Reflecting on the impact of winning the Ballon d’Or, Rodri said,
“It has changed my life. Many things I could do before, I can no longer do. But it’s for a good reason. In life, you must accept things as they come.
There’s no use complaining when things aren’t ideal or going overboard when you win a Ballon d’Or. I’m grateful for everything God has given me, including challenges like injuries, and I’ll keep moving forward.”
