Ronaldo stirs Ballon d'Or debate in Dubai
Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo stirred controversy at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards by stating that Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior deserved the 2024 Ballon d'Or instead of winner Rodri from Manchester City. Ronaldo expressed his preference for the Globe Soccer Awards, describing them as "honest" compared to other galas that "always do the same thing."
The ceremony saw Real Madrid dominate the awards, with Vinicius Junior claiming both Men's Best Player and Best Forward honors, surpassing teammates Jude Bellingham and Ronaldo himself. Bellingham secured the Best Midfielder award and the Maradona accolade, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois received a career award. The Spanish giants were named men's club of the year, with Carlo Ancelotti taking home the Best Coach of 2024 award.
The controversy surrounding the Ballon d'Or intensified when Vinicius posted a cryptic message on X (formerly Twitter): "I'll do it 10 times if I have to. They're not ready." The Brazilian forward had been considered a strong contender after scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists in 39 matches, including a crucial goal in the Champions League final.
Rodri, the Ballon d'Or winner, attempted to defuse tensions in an interview with Cadena COPE, expressing respect for Vinicius and Real Madrid while acknowledging each club's right to their own decisions regarding award ceremonies.
Despite missing out on the Ballon d'Or, Vinicius ended the year on a high note by winning FIFA's The Best 2024 award and delivering a stellar performance in the Intercontinental Cup final, where he contributed a goal and an assist in Real Madrid's 3-0 victory over Pachuca. Ronaldo, meanwhile, was recognized at the Dubai ceremony as the best Middle East-based player and received a special trophy acknowledging his status as the all-time top goal scorer.
