Cristiano Ronaldo has reignited debates surrounding the 2024 Ballon d’Or awarded on October 28. Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner expressed disappointment over the decision to award the prestigious title to Rodri, Manchester City’s Spanish midfielder. According to Ronaldo, Real Madrid’s Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior was more deserving, citing his decisive role in winning the Champions League, La Liga, and Spanish Super Cup.
“In my opinion, Vinícius deserved the Golden Ball. Giving it to Rodri, though he is also deserving, was unfair,” Ronaldo remarked. Vinícius, the Champions League Final’s goal-scorer and Player of the Season, lost to Rodri by 41 points in journalist votes. Rodri’s triumphs included the Premier League, UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup, and a standout performance in Spain’s European Championship victory.
Despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or, Vinícius edged past Rodri to claim FIFA’s “The Best” award in December. Ronaldo, who wasn’t shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or, criticized its organizer, France Football, for biased practices, while praising the transparency of the Globe Soccer Awards, where he won Middle East Player of the Year and All-Time Leading Scorer.
Ronaldo also hinted at future ambitions, saying, “Maybe I’ll be a club owner. Let’s see what time and opportunity bring.
