Published 08:40 IST, October 29th 2024
'They're not ready...': Vinicius Jr. Breaks Silence Following Ballon d'Or 2024 Snub After Rodri Won
Vinicius Jr. expresses disappointment over his 2024 Ballon d'Or snub, highlighting the surprising win by Rodri and suggesting that others may not be prepared.
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr was the heavy favourite to win the Ballon d'Or in 2024 given he led Real Madrid to their 15th Champions League and 36th La Liga crown. However, on Tuesday Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has instead won the Ballon d'Or ahead of Vinicius Jr. This news left many football fans fuming as they slammed France Football and UEFA claiming that Ballon d'Or has lost all its credibility.
Vinicius Jr. issues first reaction after losing the Ballon d’Or to Rodri
A clearly frustrated Vinicius Junior declared his will to keep aiming for success after the Ballon d'Or results were announced, saying he is ready to strive for it 10 more times if needed. "They're not prepared," he said, for his next projects. Vinicius was seen as a strong contender for the esteemed prize before the presentation, but Manchester City's Rodri finally brought home the Ballon d'Or 2024.
Not long after the findings were announced, Vinicius offered his opinions on X, stating:
“I'll do it 10x if I have to, They're not ready.”
Having scored 24 goals and given 11 assists in 39 games previous season, Vinicius Junior was generally considered as the Ballon d'Or champion. Along with celebrating successes with Real Madrid in the 2023–24 LaLiga, UEFA Champions League, and Supercopa de España.
As well-known writer Fabrizio Romano revealed that Real Madrid would not be attending the event, speculation on his possibilities became more intense and concerns over the result of the award emerged.
Vinicius finished second in the rankings during the ceremony; his friend Jude Bellingham came third. Many past and present athletes used social media after the outcomes to show their support of Vinicius.
Vinicius, who is only 24 years old, has a great chance to win the Ballon d'Or in the next years if he keeps performing at this level. In 15 games for Real Madrid, he has started off the current season very well, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists.
Updated 08:40 IST, October 29th 2024