Manchester City midfielder Rodri Conquers the 2024 Ballon d’Or, Cementing His Status as a Football Elite
Rodri, the talented midfielder from Manchester City, has etched his name in history as the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner. In a thrilling conclusion, he outshone the likes of Real Madrid stars Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham to claim the coveted individual prize. This triumphant victory solidifies Rodri’s position among the sport’s finest, underscoring the endurance and perseverance that have characterized his journey.
The commendation began at the prestigious ceremony held in Paris, France, where Rodri delivered an emotional acceptance speech, reminiscing about a pivotal moment in his early career. He shared an anecdote about a tough time when he considered giving up on his football dreams. Rodri revealed how his father’s unwavering support helped him stay the course. “At one point, I told my father, ‘Stop, I’m leaving football, my dream is over,'” he recalled. But his father’s words of encouragement had a profound impact: “But he told me, ‘No, keep going, let’s try until the end’.”
Rodri subsequently reflected on the people who had nurtured his ambition, acknowledging the significant role his family and mentors played in his success. “I’m here today, and I’m proud,” he beamed. “I have to thank everyone who has supported me on this journey.”
The Ballon d’Or’s final rankings placed Rodri at the top, with Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham just behind. This year’s list, which features 29 of the world’s top players, celebrates the incredible talent and dedication that define the sport we love.
Check out the full list of top-ranked players below:
