"Unfair!" - Cristiano Ronaldo claims Vinicius Jr was robbed of the Ballon d'Or, criticizing the decision to award it to Man City star Rodri over the Brazilian forward.

 

Cristiano Ronaldo Criticizes Ballon d'Or Snub for Vinicius Jr, Calls Globe Soccer Awards "More Honest"

Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed that Vinicius Junior was unfairly denied the 2024 Ballon d’Or, which was awarded to Manchester City’s Rodri.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Vinicius was widely tipped to win the prestigious award throughout October. However, reports emerged just before the ceremony suggesting that Rodri, pivotal in Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign, would take the honor. The decision reportedly led Real Madrid and Vinicius’ camp to boycott the Paris event in protest.

Despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or, Vinicius went on to claim The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award and was named Player of the Year at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards. At the same ceremony, Ronaldo received the Best Middle East Player award and used the platform to express his dissatisfaction with the Ballon d’Or outcome.

WHAT RONALDO SAID

Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards, Ronaldo stated:

"In my opinion, he [Vinicius] deserved to win the Golden Ball [Ballon d'Or]. It was unfair. I say this in front of everyone. They gave it to Rodri, who deserved it too, but Vinicius won the Champions League and scored in the final.

"You know these galas, they always do the same thing. This is why I love the Globe Soccer Awards—they are honest."

Ronaldo went on to suggest that the Globe Soccer Awards, partially owned by his agent Jorge Mendes, are a more credible alternative to football's most iconic accolade.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

While Vinicius may have missed out on the Ballon d’Or, his individual accolades in 2024 solidify his growing reputation as one of the best in world football. Meanwhile, Ronaldo continues to shine in the Saudi Pro League, though his Al-Nassr team faces an uphill battle for silverware, sitting fourth in the league standings.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR RONALDO?

With the Saudi Pro League on winter break, Ronaldo and Al-Nassr return to action on January 9, when they face Al-Akhdoud. The Portuguese icon will aim to lead his side back into contention for the league title.