Cristiano Ronaldo wades into Ballon d'Or row with 'unfair' statement - and names his winner Cristiano Ronaldo has reignited the debate over this year’s Ballon d’Or by branding Rodri’s victory “unfair”.
Speaking in Dubai at the Globe Soccer Awards, where he was named ‘Best Middle East player of 2024’, he said: “In my opinion, he (Vinicius) deserved to win the golden ball [Ballon d'Or award].
Manchester City midfielder Rodri was the surprise winner of the men’s award at the end of October, beating Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior in the vote.
Although the award is voted for by journalists from around the globe, Real kicked up a fuss, boycotting the event and suggesting the Vinicius snub was disrespectful.
The Brazilian forward contributed 24 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions to help Real clinch the La Liga and Champions League double last season.
