Cristiano Ronaldo Hits Out at Ballon d’Or Over Vinicius Junior Snub

• Cristiano Ronaldo has asserted that Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior was robbed of the 2024 Ballon d'Or
• Vinicius lost the award to Manchester City's Rodri back in October, leaving many questioning the verdict1
• Ronaldo also stirred conversation by suggesting that the Globe Soccer Awards surpass the Ballon d’Or in prestige and fairness

Former Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed Vinicius Junior was robbed of the Ballon d'Or with Manchester City's Rodri winning the prize.

Vinicius was widely regarded as the favourite to claim the prestigious award throughout October, with many tipping the Real Madrid star for the prestigious honour.

The Brazilian's standout performances and consistency had placed him firmly in the spotlight as a top contender for the award.

However, on the eve of the ceremony, reports surfaced indicating a surprising twist. It was suggested that Vinicius would miss out on the Ballon d’Or, with the accolade instead going to Rodri.

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The Manchester City midfielder had been instrumental in his team’s successes, including their historic treble-winning campaign, ultimately securing the award.

However, Real Madrid boycotted the ceremony in Paris, after Rodri beat Vinicius Junior to the men’s prize.

Vinicius was Real top scorer in a campaign that saw the Spanish giants win the Champions League and La Liga.

Cristiano Ronaldo insists Vinicius was robbed of Ballon d'Or

And five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo has now come out in support of the Brazilian, insisting he should have won the trophy while questioning the credibility of the prestigious prize.

Speaking at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards on Friday, Ronaldo said via beIN Sports:

"In my opinion, he [Vinicius] deserved to win the Golden Ball [Ballon d'Or award].

"It was unfair in my opinion. I say here in front of everybody. They give it to Rodri, he deserved it too, but they should have given it to Vinicius because he won the Champions League and scored in the final.

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"You know these galas, they always do the same thing. This is why I love Globe Soccer Awards, they are honest."

Vinicius responds to Ronaldo's praise

Meanwhile, Vinicius has offered his perspective on Ronaldo's assertion that he is currently the finest footballer in the world.

The Brazilian winger also addressed his disappointment at being overlooked for this year's Ballon d’Or, a decision that sparked debate across the football fraternity.

Reacting to Ronaldo’s endorsement, Vinicius expressed gratitude and admiration for one of his idols.

“If Cristiano says it, then I end up believing I’m the best," he remarked while accepting his award.

“Winning the best player award with my idols here watching is an honour for me,” he added, reflecting on the recognition that capped off an extraordinary year.

Vinicius eyes Ballon d'Or success

YEN.com.gh also highlighted Vinicius Jr’s ambitions for Ballon d’Or success following his triumph as the 2024 FIFA The Best Men’s Player.

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Despite narrowly losing the prestigious award to Manchester City’s Rodri, the Real Madrid winger remains hopeful about future accolades as he continues to build his legacy in Spain.

Source: YEN.com.gh