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Rodri wins 2024 men’s Ballon d’Or

The Spaniard beat Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior to the award on a dramatic evening of celebration in the French capital.

Rodri enjoyed a remarkable campaign that saw him win the Club World Cup and a fourth consecutive Premier League title with Manchester City.

The 28-year-old also helped Spain to European Championship success where he was named the player of the tournament.

After suffering a season-ending ACL injury in September, he arrived at the Théâtre du Chatelet in crutches.

The defensive midfield maestro became the first Premier League player since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 to lay his hands on the prestigious prize.

Earlier in the day, Real Madrid stole the headlines after cancelling their trip to Paris at the last minute.

Los Blancos’ entire delegation opted against flying in for the ceremony after hearing that Vinicius would not be taking home the award.

The Brazilian was widely expected to be the favourite, but the winger finished in second place after votes from journalists around the world were tallied.

Nonetheless, Real Madrid were still named as men’s club of the season for their league and Champions League triumphs. Despite not being in attendance, Carlo Ancelotti was also named manager of the year.

Kylian Mbappe was the joint winner of the Gerd Muller trophy for most goals alongside England captain Harry Kane, who graced the Ballon d’Or stage for the very first time.

Barcelona playmaker Aitana Bonmati won the women’s Ballon d’Or for a second consecutive year after excellent performances in La Liga F and the women’s Champions League.

In Mzansi, Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper Ronwen Williams made waves after he attended the awards and was named the ninth-best goalkeeper in the world.

The 32-year-old finished in behind the likes of Unai Simon, Giorgi Mamardashvili and Yashin trophy winner Emi Martinez.

Pictured above: Rodri

Source: @ballondorofficial