Manchester City midfielder Rodri claimed the 2024 Ballon d’Or in Paris, celebrated not just for his exceptional club and country performances but also for his humility and sportsmanship. This prestigious award followed a triumphant season where Rodri played a pivotal role in securing Manchester City’s fourth consecutive Premier League title and leading Spain to victory in the European Championships, where he was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Rodri, 28, became the first Premier League player to win the award since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 and the first Spanish male player since Luis Suárez in 1960, marking a historical moment for Spanish football.
Rodri’s acceptance speech was heartfelt and filled with gratitude, acknowledging both his Manchester City and Spanish teammates. Supported on crutches due to a recent knee injury that could end his season early, Rodri said, “I have so many people to thank,” calling out friends, family, and teammates. His gratitude extended to his national team coach Luis de la Fuente, whom he credited for trusting him throughout his career, as well as his Spain teammate Dani Carvajal. Rodri and Carvajal have shared an unfortunate bond over their recent knee injuries, but their shared values and commitment to teamwork and loyalty to their clubs have created a deep respect between them.
Photo Credit by Marc Piasecki/Wirelmage
In a press interaction, Rodri graciously acknowledged the accomplishments of Real Madrid stars Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham, who finished second and third in the Ballon d’Or rankings. “They are all great players with bright futures ahead,” he remarked. Vinicius was considered a frontrunner for the award after leading Real Madrid to a Liga and Champions League double last season. However, he chose to skip the ceremony in Paris upon learning he did not win, a decision that stirred controversy, especially among Madrid fans and officials, who criticized the selection process. Rodri’s win was seen by some as an upset, given Vinicius’s impressive 24 goals and 11 assists across 39 matches. Despite the rivalry, Rodri remained composed and focused on celebrating his win, mentioning he planned to keep the Ballon d’Or close by as he celebrated the achievement with loved ones.
Carvajal, an outspoken supporter of Rodri’s talents, suggested that he would be an ideal fit at Real Madrid. In light-hearted conversations during Spain’s European Championship campaign, Carvajal urged him to consider a move, humorously pointing out the English weather as a reason to join Real. Though flattered, Rodri has expressed satisfaction with his role at Manchester City, where he has thrived since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2019. With three years remaining on his contract, he is content to continue playing in one of the world’s top leagues, emphasizing his appreciation for English football culture and his gratitude towards manager Pep Guardiola for helping him adapt and evolve into a “modern midfielder.”
Rodri’s grounded personality stood out throughout the Ballon d’Or celebrations. Describing himself as “a normal guy” who steers clear of social media, he emphasized his commitment to self-improvement, noting that his growth has come from adapting his style to fit the demands of modern football. This humility and down-to-earth nature have endeared him to fans and teammates alike. “I always try to be a better person and give my best every day,” he shared, reflecting on his approach to both football and life.
Despite his personal injury setback, Rodri remains optimistic about Spain’s future. As part of a younger generation leading the national team, he believes they have the potential to define a new era in Spanish football, setting high goals for the upcoming Nations League and World Cup tournaments. Rodri’s focus and determination underscore his ambition not only to represent his club and country at the highest levels but also to inspire and contribute to the legacy of Spanish football.
Meanwhile, Rodri’s Ballon d’Or triumph has added fuel to the competitive dynamic between City and Madrid. With eight Madrid players nominated, the Spanish club had a strong presence among top-tier football talent this year. Although Real Madrid boycotted the event in response to Vinicius’s second-place finish, Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti received the Coach of the Year award, and the team was recognized as the Men’s Team of the Year. This year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony highlighted both the sportsmanship and rivalry that define elite football, with Rodri’s humility setting a tone of respect and acknowledgment for all the players competing at the top of the game.
