2024 Ballon d’Or trophy. Image: Goal.com
(The Post News)- The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, held on October 28 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, crowned Manchester City midfielder Rodri as the winner of the prestigious award. Rodri’s influence in Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign and his role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph made him a deserving recipient of football’s top individual prize. Aitana Bonmatí of Barcelona took home the Women’s Ballon d’Or, adding to her growing list of accolades this year.
Despite a strong Real Madrid contingent being nominated—including Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Júnior, and Kylian Mbappé—none of these stars clinched the top prize. Notably, Vinícius finished as the runner-up in the men’s category. Real Madrid was named Club of the Year, recognizing the team’s achievements, but their players were edged out by Rodri’s dominance.
One surprising aspect of the evening was the lack of presence from key Real Madrid figures, possibly hinting at internal choices regarding the event, especially as Vinícius and Bellingham have been pivotal in Real’s ongoing success this season. Mbappé, though still associated with Paris Saint-Germain at the time of nomination, had a similar low profile at the event.
Meanwhile, South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, although not competing for individual honors, drew some attention as the captain of a Mamelodi Sundowns team that continues to excel domestically and in continental competitions, showcasing South Africa’s emerging football prowess on the global stage.
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