The Ballon d’Or 2024 ceremony was held on Monday evening at the Chatelet Theatre in Paris. The biggest story was the absence of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. They have won 13 Ballon d’Or awards between them since neither was nominated for the first time in 20 years. However, there was another controversy when the Real Madrid footballers, the support staff and the management did not attend the ceremony.
Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior was the favourite to be crowned the world’s best player. He was supposed to become the first winner born this century. However, ahead of that, there was a list leaked. That showcased Rodri topping the list ahead of the Brazilian winger this was the very reason for not attending. The whole Los Blancos team denied travelling to France for the ceremony. The list that was leaked believed that Rodri would win the Ballon d’Or and it did happen.
The Spanish midfielder had a sensational season with Manchester City and Spain. He won the Premier League and the UEFA Euro 2024 with the nation. The 28-year-old has been in great form for the club and country. Despite being out this season as the midfielder has undergone surgery after injuring his knee. This occurred after the 2-2 draw against Arsenal.
Rodri becomes the greatest Spanish midfielder
Has Rodri officially surpassed Spain’s midfield legends? Spain has the best midfielders Xavi, Iniesta, and Sergio Busquets, these three have never won this prestigious trophy in their career. But their legacy for Spain football is unmatched and Rodri despite winning the Ballon d’Or might not be surpassing the legacy they have created or the aura they had during their playing days. The Manchester City midfielder becomes the third footballer from Spain to win this trophy.
Alfredo di Stefano and Luis Suarez were the first two who won this trophy. It is surely a heartful moment for the Spaniard as he has worked hard and showcased brilliant football in the 2023/24 season for the club and country. Barcelona and Spain star Aitana Bonmati earlier won her second successive women’s Ballon d’Or, after leading her club to a historic continental quadruple of titles and claiming the Nations League with her country.
