Vinicius Junior Crowned The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2024 After Ballon d’Or Snub
Madrid’s star winger claims FIFA honor
- Key to Champions League and La Liga triumphs
- Controversially missed out on Ballon d’Or
- Focus shifts to Intercontinental Cup final
WHAT HAPPENED?
Vinicius Junior has been named The Best FIFA Men’s Player for 2024, just two months after missing out on the Ballon d’Or in a decision that sparked controversy. The Brazilian winger scored 24 goals last season, playing a crucial role in Real Madrid's Champions League and La Liga victories, including a decisive goal in their 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the European final.
Vinicius beat competition from teammates Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal, and Federico Valverde, as well as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Rodri, Erling Haaland, Florian Wirtz, and Lamine Yamal, to claim the prestigious award.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Vinicius’ triumph comes after Real Madrid boycotted the Ballon d’Or ceremony in October, protesting the decision to award the prize to Manchester City’s Rodri instead. In response to the snub, Vinicius posted a defiant message on social media: “I’ll do it 10x if I have to. They’re not ready.”
WHAT VINICIUS SAID
During his acceptance speech, the Real Madrid star reflected on his journey from humble beginnings, stating:
“It was so far away that it seemed impossible to get here. I was just a kid playing soccer barefoot on the streets of Sao Goncalo, surrounded by crime. This award means so much to me, but also to children who think their dreams are out of reach. I owe this to my family, who gave up their dreams to support mine, and to my team, who have helped me every step of the way. I’m grateful to Real Madrid, the biggest club in the world, and to Flamengo, who believed in me when I was just a kid on the streets. This is for them.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR VINICIUS?
Vinicius will aim to cap off a remarkable year by helping Real Madrid secure the Intercontinental Cup when they face Pachuca on Wednesday.
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