Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri claimed the prestigious men’s Ballon d’Or title, edging out Real Madrid stars Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Dani Carvajal at Monday night’s ceremony in Paris. Real Madrid, disappointed with the anticipated loss of Vinicius, opted to boycott the event.
Rodri’s remarkable season saw him help Manchester City retain the Premier League title and win both the Club World Cup and Carabao Cup, while he also played a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, the only African player among the top 30 nominees, ranked 14th overall. The award results are determined by a panel of journalists from the top 100 countries in FIFA’s men’s rankings.
Meanwhile, Aitana Bonmati clinched the Ballon d’Or Feminin for a second consecutive year, following an outstanding season with Barcelona, where she secured both the La Liga F and Champions League titles. Her teammate Caroline Graham Hansen took second place, with Salma Paralluelo rounding out the top three.
Additional honors included:
- Gerd Muller Trophy: Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe each scored 52 goals, earning joint recognition.
- Kopa Trophy: Young star Lamine Yamal, who shone in Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, won the best young player award.
- Yashin Trophy: Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa and Argentina retained the best goalkeeper title.
- Socrates Award: Jennifer Hermoso received this for her advocacy in women’s football and against sexual harassment.
- Coach of the Year: Chelsea’s Emma Hayes won the women’s title, while Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti claimed the men’s.
Barcelona and Real Madrid were named Women’s and Men’s Clubs of the Year, respectively, although Madrid was absent from the ceremony.
