Against expectations, Manchester City’s Rodri was awarded the 2024 Ballon d’Or by France Football in a Paris ceremony on Monday night. While Vinicius Jr. had been seen as a strong contender, he didn’t hide his disappointment, sending a powerful message in response.
The Brazilian forward spent Monday preparing for what he hoped would be a moment of personal triumph. Anticipating the honor, Vinicius had gathered family and friends in Madrid, and a custom suit was prepared for the occasion. However, when news broke that Rodri was selected, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez quickly canceled the planned trip to Paris, with one insider reportedly stating, “If the Ballon d’Or and UEFA do not respect Madrid, Madrid will not show up.”
In response, Vinicius and his teammates watched the ceremony unfold from Madrid. Although Vinicius did not make an official statement, his reaction was clear. Just 20 minutes after Rodri’s victory was announced, Vinicius took to social media, posting, “I’ll do it ten times if needed. They’re not ready.” His statement reflected both his frustration and his determination to overcome this setback.
Vinicius Jr., whose standout performances last season earned wide acclaim, remains supported by Real Madrid and its fans. For many, he represents not only exceptional talent but also the spirit of a new generation determined to reach the top.