Cristiano Ronaldo has taken a strong stance, claiming Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior was “stolen” this year's Ballon d'Or.
Speaking at the prestigious Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Friday December 27, 2024, CR7 openly criticized the decision to award the award to Manchester City midfielder Rodri, insisting Vinícius was the rightful winner.
Cristiano Ronaldo's props
“In my opinion, he (Vinícius) deserved to win the golden ball”, Ronaldo said on stage.
“It was unfair in my opinion. I say it in front of everyone. They gave it to Rodri, he deserved it too, but they should have given it to Vinícius because he won the Champions League and scored in the final”, he added.
Ronaldo's remarks reignited debate over the Ballon d'Or voting process, which has often been accused of favoring certain leagues or players.
Then, the Portuguese player praises Globe Soccer, while Vinicius is voted best player of the year.
Remember that Vinicius, who played an essential role in Real Madrid's victory in the Champions League, notably by scoring the decisive goal in the final, was notably absent from the Ballon d'Or ceremony which took place in Paris in October 2024.
Vinicius and Real Madrid absent from the Ballon d'Or award evening
Alongside his Madrid teammates, the 24-year-old Brazilian winger boycotted the event, which was interpreted by many as a silent protest against perceived bias in the awarding of the prize.
While Rodri's contribution to Manchester City's treble-winning campaign is undeniable, Ronaldo's support for Vinícius adds weight to the criticism.
The Portuguese star, who was not selected for this year's Ballon d'Or, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the organizers, according to France Football magazine.
Despite not being selected for the Ballon d'Or, Vinícius has had an exceptional year, recently winning FIFA's Best Men's Player award and being named Best Men's Player at the Globe Soccer Awards.
Ronaldo, who received the Best Middle East Player award in Dubai, attended the gala with his partner Georgina Rodriguez and took the opportunity to praise Globe Soccer for its transparency and fairness.
“Globe Soccer does things differently and rewards players in a way that truly respects their contributions”, he said, praising the organization for its recognition of players in different football regions.
