In a historic victory that represents the apex of his inspirational journey, Manchester City midfielder Rodri won the coveted 2024 Ballon d’Or, finishing ahead of Real Madrid players Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.The Spanish international thought back on the rocky journey that brought him to football’s greatest individual honour after accepting his award.
Rodri shared a significant event from his early career during his acceptance speech on Monday at the ceremony in Paris, France.”I told my father one day, ‘Stop, I am leaving football, my dream is over.'” he said. But he said, “No, do not stop, let us try to the end.”That perseverance has now earned him football’s greatest individual honour, he claims.
In a historic victory that represents the apex of his inspirational journey, Manchester City midfielder Rodri won the coveted 2024 Ballon d’Or, finishing ahead of Real Madrid players Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
The Spanish international thought back on the rocky journey that brought him to football’s greatest individual honour after accepting his award.Rodri shared a significant event from his early career during his acceptance speech on Monday at the ceremony in Paris, France.
He said, “One day I told my father: stop, I leave football, my dream is over. However, he told me to keep going and try to the end.He says that perseverance has now paid off, as football’s highest individual honour “I am proud to be here today; I must express my gratitude,” Rodri continued.
The dynamic pair of Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid finished in the top three, while Rodri took first place in the final rankings.
The fact that 29 of football’s best players are on the full list of honourees highlights how competitive this year’s award is.