PARIS — In an evening that celebrated the pinnacle of global football talent, Manchester City midfielder Rodri clinched the prestigious men’s Ballon d’Or award for 2024, becoming the first player in the club’s history to receive the honor.
Rodri, 28, was awarded in recognition of a stellar season, both with Manchester City and the Spanish national team, having achieved victories across a range of competitions including the Euro 2024 title, Premier League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup.
The accolade, presented in Paris, saw Rodri surpass Real Madrid’s Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr., who finished second, and English international Jude Bellingham, who came in third. Rodri’s exceptional record last season—losing only one match across all competitions—underscored his critical role for both club and country.
Triumph in Euro 2024 and the Domestic Treble
Rodri’s performances during the 2024 season left a significant mark on Manchester City’s success. His nine goals were career-high, showcasing his value not only as a defensive stalwart but also as a player with a key offensive edge.
Notably, his late strikes in the Premier League proved instrumental in securing crucial points, with a goal in the decisive 3-1 victory over West Ham sealing the title for City.
On the international stage, Rodri excelled at Euro 2024, where he led Spain to victory over England in the final. Although he was forced off the field at half-time due to injury, his performances throughout the tournament earned him the title of player of the tournament.
Speaking from the podium while on crutches—having ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in September—Rodri expressed deep pride in winning the Ballon d’Or, framing it as a victory not just for himself but for Spanish football.
“This is not just for me,” he told the audience, “it is for Spanish football, for so many players who never won this award but deserved it—like Iniesta, Xavi, Casillas, Busquets, and so many others. This is a tribute to them and to Spanish football as a whole.”
A Nod to Midfielders and the Unsung Heroes of Football
In an era dominated by goal-scorers and forwards, Rodri’s win represents a shift in recognition toward midfielders and defensive players, roles often termed “in the shadows” of football’s glamour.
Rodri acknowledged this dynamic in his acceptance speech, stating, “Many friends have told me that today, football itself has won. Midfielders and defensive players are being seen for their contribution—often unseen but essential to the game.”
The evening took on additional poignancy as the 28-year-old paid homage to midfielders who have consistently shaped the sport without widespread recognition.
Presented the award by George Weah, the 1995 Ballon d’Or winner, Rodri stood as an ambassador of the game’s unsung heroes, making the occasion especially significant for those who contribute tirelessly behind the scenes.
Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win is also notable for being the first since 2003 to exclude Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo from the top nominations. This shift signals a new era, with younger players taking on leading roles in international football and redefining what it means to be the world’s best.
Real Madrid’s Silent Protest and Awards
While the awards celebrated individual talent, the absence of Real Madrid players and representatives was a noteworthy element of the evening.
Earlier in the day, reports emerged that Real Madrid’s delegation would boycott the event due to suspicions that Vinicius Jr. would not win the Ballon d’Or despite his impressive performances.
Vinicius Jr.’s absence was emblematic of the club’s reported dissatisfaction, even as Real Madrid was honored with the Club of the Year award, and their manager, Carlo Ancelotti, received the men’s Coach of the Year award.
Ancelotti’s recognition, under the Johan Cruyff Trophy title, underscored his achievement in guiding Madrid to a league title, Spanish Super Cup, and their record 15th UEFA Champions League victory.
With Madrid’s seven Ballon d’Or shortlist players, including Vinicius Jr., their absence cast a shadow over the event. When Real Madrid was announced as the Club of the Year, there were no speeches or acknowledgments from the winners, and the ceremony moved quickly to the next award.
The club’s decision to remain silent marked a departure from the usual fanfare, leaving football fans to speculate on the politics and complexities of top-tier award decisions.
Kane and Mbappé Share Gerd Muller Trophy
Another highlight of the evening was the awarding of the Gerd Muller Trophy, which celebrates the year’s top goal-scorers.
England’s Harry Kane, who joined Bayern Munich in August 2023 from Tottenham Hotspur, shared the honor with France’s Kylian Mbappé after both recorded an impressive tally of 52 goals across all competitions last season.
With Mbappé absent, Kane was presented with the award by Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, a Bayern Munich legend.
The English captain expressed gratitude to his new club, teammates, and staff for their roles in his achievement, saying, “It’s an honor to take this award from a club legend. Bayern Munich and my teammates have been an incredible support.”
Kane’s achievement also earned him a place among the Ballon d’Or finalists, where he finished 10th. His move to Bayern has bolstered his international career, and his goal-scoring prowess has made a substantial impact, both for Bayern and on the international stage with England.
Rodri’s Personal Outlook Amid Injury Challenges
While Rodri’s achievements were front and center at the event, the midfielder’s season ended on a challenging note with an ACL injury that will likely see him sidelined until the following season. He appeared undeterred by the setback, saying he intended to take the time to focus on his recovery and family.
“Right now, I’m focusing on taking care of myself, resting, and enjoying this time with my family. I’m planning to come back stronger,” Rodri stated.
This level of resilience and his humble demeanor have cemented his status as not only a top athlete but also a grounded figure in the world of sports, admired by peers and fans alike.
The Significance of the Ballon d’Or Voting and Jury Process
The Ballon d’Or remains one of football’s most esteemed awards, with selections made by a jury of journalists from FIFA’s top 100-ranked nations.
This voting process lends a unique blend of international perspectives, recognizing players who excel both at the club and national levels.
Rodri’s place in Ballon d’Or history marks a departure from the forward-dominated list of past winners, offering hope to midfielders and defensive players worldwide.
For Rodri, the award not only symbolizes his personal accomplishments but also serves as a tribute to Spanish football. This recognition, he said, is a testament to the contributions of countless Spanish players who have raised the bar of excellence.
“This is for all those who have come before me,” Rodri declared, as he accepted the Ballon d’Or amid a standing ovation from the audience.
The midfielder’s journey to the top underscores the sport’s evolution, reflecting a more inclusive view of what it takes to be the world’s best.
As Rodri prepares for a season on the sidelines, his accomplishments stand as a testament to his influence in modern football, reshaping how success is viewed for players in traditionally understated positions.