Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr., on Friday, responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s endorsement of him as the rightful Ballon d’Or winner, expressing gratitude for the praise.
“Cristiano Ronaldo’s words about the Ballon d’Or? If Cristiano said I’m the best, then I am,” the Brazilian forward said during an interview while receiving his award at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards.
Ronaldo stated that Vinicius Jr. deserved to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or ahead of Manchester City’s Rodri.
Ronaldo described Vinícius Jr.’s omission from the Ballon d’Or win as unfair while praising the integrity of the Globe Soccer Awards.
Speaking at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards, where Vinícius clinched the Best Men’s Player accolade, the former Juventus talisman remarked, “Vinícius Jr. should have won the Ballon d’Or.
“In my opinion, it was clear. It was unfair. This is why I love the Globe Soccer Awards; they are honest.”
The ceremony celebrated football’s finest, with the Real Madrid forward also claiming the Best Forward award after an extraordinary season.
England international Jude Bellingham, another Real Madrid star, took home the Best Midfielder award as well as the Maradona Award, cementing his growing reputation in the sport.
Neymar Jr. was honoured with the Player Career Award, recognising his exceptional contributions to football, while Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal was named Best Emerging Talent, underscoring his bright future.
Ronaldo was also recognised as the Top Goalscorer of All Time on the night.
