Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior has hit out at his detractors after winning The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award, saying they do not have the right to tell him how to behave.
After losing the Ballon d’Or to Manchester City star Rodri a couple of months back, Vinicius Jr. climbed the top step on Tuesday, 17th December, winning The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award.
The Brazilian left-winger won the coveted accolade thanks to his astonishing performances for Real Madrid throughout the 2023-24 season. He played 39 games for the club in all competitions, scoring 24 goals and claiming 11 assists. His heroics helped Los Blancos win the La Liga title, the UEFA Champions League trophy, and the Supercopa de Espana.
Real Madrid Ace Vinicius Jr. Slams Critics After The Best Win
According to reports, the 24-year-old was disgruntled after failing to win the Ballon d’Or. He reportedly thought that his outspokenness about football’s racism issue cost him the award.
Vinicius Jr. has also come under fire for his expressive celebrations and tussle with fans. Former Real Madrid player Ivan Helguera recently advised him to check his actions after he gestured to Rayo Vallecano supporters during Saturday’s (14th December) 3-3 draw.
After claiming the top prize at The Best FIFA Awards, Vinicius Jr. set the record straight, stating he would not change for anyone.
Taking to Instagram the No. 7 wrote:
“VENI, VIDI, VICI 🏆
“Today I write to that boy who saw so many idols lift this trophy… Your time has come. Or better yet, my time has come to say… Yes, I am the best player in the world and I have fought hard for it.”
He added:
“They tried and tried to invalidate me, to diminish me. But they are not ready. No one is going to tell me who I should fight for, how I should behave. When I was in Sao Goncalo, the system did not call me. They almost swallowed me up.
“I won for myself, for my family. With a lot of support along the way: Flamengo, Real Madrid, the Brazilian national team, my hundreds of teammates during those years… the people who accompany me daily in my routine who admire me…”
Vinicius Jr. defiantly concluded his post, writing:
“THE BEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD”
Vinicius Jr. has been in stellar form in the 2024-25 season, setting the stage for another Ballon d’Or push this season. He has played 20 games for the club so far, scoring 13 goals and providing nine assists.
