Rodri Responds to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ballon d’Or Criticism

Rodri, Manchester City’s midfielder, has responded to comments made by Cristiano Ronaldo regarding his selection as the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner. The legendary Portuguese forward expressed his belief that Vinícius Júnior, Real Madrid’s star winger, deserved the award over Rodri, citing Vinícius’s key role in helping Real Madrid win the Champions League and scoring in the final.

Rodri’s Surprised Response

In an interview with Diario AS, Rodri was taken aback by Ronaldo’s comments, pointing out that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner should be well aware of how the award is determined:

“A surprise, really, because he knows better than anyone how this award works and, above all, how the winner is chosen. This year, the journalists who vote have considered that I should win it. Probably, these same journalists were the ones who at some point voted for him to win, and I imagine that then he would agree.”

The Context of the 2024 Ballon d’Or

Rodri, 28, was awarded the prestigious Ballon d’Or after a phenomenal season in which he helped Manchester City secure the Premier League title and led Spain to victory in the European Championship. Meanwhile, Vinícius Júnior had been one of the top contenders for the award, thanks to his outstanding contributions to Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League successes. Despite his impressive achievements, the Brazilian forward did not win the Ballon d’Or but claimed the FIFA The Best Men’s Player award and the Globe Soccer Best Men’s Prize in December 2024.

Real Madrid’s Boycott of the Ceremony

In a notable move, Real Madrid chose to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris after Rodri was named the winner over Vinícius. This decision sparked debates over the legitimacy of the award and its impact on the rivalry between the two clubs.

Life After the Ballon d’Or: Rodri’s Perspective

Rodri also shared his thoughts on how winning the Ballon d’Or has affected his life. Despite the recognition, he emphasized that it comes with its own challenges, including dealing with injuries:

“It has changed my life. Many things that I could do before, obviously, I can no longer do. But hey, it is for a good reason … I have the philosophy that in life you have to take things as they are given to you.”

He expressed deep gratitude for the honor and the challenges that come with it:

“There is no need to complain when things are not the way you want or go crazy when you win a Ballon d’Or. God has given me what he has given me and I am extremely grateful. I have to deal with everything, including injuries, and move forward.”

Rodri’s Career and Legacy

Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win places him among the most elite players in world football. His ability to maintain his focus and humility despite receiving such a prestigious award speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the game.

Key Takeaways:

• Rodri responds to Cristiano Ronaldo‘s criticism of his Ballon d’Or win.
• Ronaldo believed Vinícius Júnior should have won the award over Rodri.
• Rodri’s 2024 season saw him win the Premier League and the European Championship with Spain.
• Real Madrid boycotted the Ballon d’Or ceremony after Vinícius’s loss.
• Despite the honor, Rodri remains grounded and focused on moving forward with his career.

Rodri’s win marks a significant achievement in his career, and his ability to handle the spotlight with humility continues to earn him admiration in the football world.