Real Madrid and Brazil star Vinicius Junior took to social media to respond to his stunning rejection of the Ballon d’Or on Monday night.
The flying wing was widely expected to win the award presented by France Football after leading Los Blancos to a League and Champions League double last season.
However, it quickly emerged that Vinicius it wouldn’t be winning the gong against Rodri from Manchester City received the award later Monday eveningwithout the presence of Madrid stars as they protested the decision.
Vinicius didn’t seem to agree with the ruling, hinting that he will now do his best to win the Ballon d’Or in the future.
Posted in X: “I’ll do it 10 times if I have to. They’re not ready.”
I’ll do it 10 times if I have to. They are not ready.
— Vini Jr. (@vinijr) October 28, 2024
Madrid has a storied history with the Ballon d’Orwith a number of club legends having won it in the past. Icons such as Alfredo Di Stefano, Raymond Kopa, Luis Figo and Ronaldo claimed the gold before Cristiano Ronaldo won it four times during the trophy-laden 2010 period.
Luka Modric was crowned the best player in the world in 2018 though Madrid They are now without a Ballon d’Or since 2022, when Karim Benzema received the honour. Lionel Messi won the 2023 award after leading Argentina to World Cup success, while Rodri was rewarded for his Premier League and Euro 2024 triumphs.
The Madrid stars had at least some success on Monday night, despite not being in attendance. Kylian Mbappe shared the Gerd Muller Trophy alongside Bayern Munich and England forward Harry Kane, while Carlo Ancelotti was named Men’s Coach of the Year.
Madrid were also named the best men’s team of 2024, but their collective absence made it an awkward stage in Paris, especially after their 4-0 defeat against Barcelona The classic.
