Ballon d’Or 2024: Rodri named winner and Full Top 30 announced as Real Madrid BOYCOTT ceremony

The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony was held in Paris, bringing together many of the world’s top football talents for an evening of recognition and celebration at the historic Theatre du Chatelet. This prestigious annual event, organized by France Football, celebrates the outstanding achievements of footballers worldwide across several award categories.

The buildup to this year’s ceremony had centered largely on Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, who had been favored by fans and critics alike as a potential frontrunner for the coveted men’s Ballon d’Or title. The Brazilian forward’s performances throughout the season were consistently impressive, positioning him as a formidable candidate for the prestigious honor. However, in a surprising twist, Manchester City’s Rodri emerged as a favorite shortly before the ceremony. Known for his crucial contributions to City’s successes, particularly in midfield, Rodri’s efforts ultimately earned him the award, marking a significant achievement in his career.

Adding intrigue to the evening, the Spanish club Real Madrid opted not to attend the ceremony, nor did they record any messages of congratulations for the selected nominees from their team. This absence was particularly notable, as Vinicius’s second-place finish, alongside teammate Jude Bellingham’s third-place ranking, underscored the club’s exceptional talent on an international level.

With the spotlight on Rodri’s win, the evening celebrated the highs and lows of a competitive season while showcasing the best talents in global football.