Brazil legend Neymar has tipped “great idol” Vinicius Jr to collect a maiden Ballon d’Or award later this year after a sparkling 2024 for club and country.
The former Barcelona and PSG forward, painstakingly missed out on the prestigious trophy during an era dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Vinicius Jr, 24, is poised to end Brazil’s 17-year Ballon d’Or drought, following AC Milan’s Ricardo Kaka’s 2007 triumph.
The Real Madrid winger has enjoyed a phenomenal 2024, securing a third La Liga title, a second UEFA Champions League medal, and a UEFA Super Cup victory alongside fellow Ballon d’Or contender Jude Bellingham.
Vinicius Jr‘s exceptional performances, including 24 goals in the 2023/24 campaign, have made him the firm favorite to scoop up the prize.
His goal in the 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium led Los Blancos to a record-extending 16th European title.
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Neymar believes Vinicius Jr‘s impressive displays make him deserving of the award. “Vinicius is a great idol, and I hope he wins the Ballon d’Or,” Neymar said.
“We have a wonderful relationship, I love Vini.”
“Vini is beyond, and he is a great friend to whom I was introduced by football.
“He had a great season, he certainly played a lot. I certainly will be rooting for him to win the Ballon d’Or, I don’t think there’s anyone else but him to win it.
“We hope that it comes back to Brazil soon and that it’s now with Vini, a guy who deserves it because he’s a hard worker and has suffered a lot throughout his life, but he’s surpassed all expectations and [coped with] all the criticism.
“So I am very happy, very happy that he’s carrying this Brazilian flag around the world.”
Other contenders, including Spain midfielder Rodri (Manchester City and La Roja) and Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), will challenge Vinicius Jr for the coveted prize.
However, Vinicius Jr‘s role in Madrid’s sensational campaign has cemented his status as the top contender.
With the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaching, Vinicius Jr‘s fate will soon be decided.
If Neymar’s prediction comes true, Brazil will celebrate its first Ballon d’Or winner since Kaka’s triumph in 2007.
