Ballon d’Or 2024 winner Rodri has said that while he respected Real Madrid’s decision to skip the gala in Paris, he would not have done the same. The Manchester City ace also confirmed that he did not receive a congratulatory message from runners-up Vinicius Jr.
Rodri’s Ballon d’Or Win Was Shrouded in Controversy
Manchester City maestro Rodri won the Ballon d’Or at the Chatelet Theater in Paris on October 28, beating outright favorite Vinicius Jr. Almost until the very end, the Real Madrid ace looked destined to win the coveted individual honor, and Los Blancos wanted to celebrate his win by sending all prominent members of the team to Paris.
Mere hours before the gala, news broke that Rodri had won the award, which prompted Real Madrid to cancel their flight. Vinicius Jr., who secured his best-ever finish in the Ballon d’Or, took to social media to say he would do it 10 times over if needed to secure the individual prize.
Rodri Says Opens Up on Real Madrid’s Ballon d’Or Snub
Speaking with Spanish outlet COPE, Rodri shared his opinion about Real Madrid’s decision to skip the Ballon d’Or gala.
He began:
“I felt a bit of disbelief when, at the time of the presentation of the trophy, half the room shouted ‘Vinicius, Vinicius!’. In any case, there was a lot of respect for me from the audience because afterward they all stood up and applauded me.
“It didn’t hurt me that they weren’t present. I have to respect everyone’s decision, although I wouldn’t have acted the same way. But they do what they want.”
The 2024 European Championship winner also said that Vinicius Jr. did not congratulate him after his win.
“Did I receive any congratulations from Madrid? There were some from former players of this club like Nacho and Joselu, with whom I shared a dressing room.
“I didn’t miss Vinicius not congratulating me. I care about my people, my family, and my club. I wouldn’t have done what Real Madrid did by not showing up to the gala, but there’s no point in thinking about it anymore.”
Rodri earned 1,170 points out of a possible 1,485 to win the Ballon d’Or. Vinicius Jr., meanwhile, came second with 1,129 points. Jude Bellingham rounded off the top three with 917 points.
