Rodri received a standing ovation while accepting the 2024 Ballon d’Or at the Théâtre du Châtelet, but there were no Real Madrid representatives in the audience.

Hours before Ballon d’Or ceremony began, the news came that Rodri won the prize against Vinícius Júnior. Although both players were undeniably favorites to win this prestigious honor, the Brazilian’s contribution to Real Madrid’s victory La Liga, Champions League and the Spanish Super Cup campaigns gave him a slight advantage.

Ballon d’Or voters instead recognized Rodri’s consistency and the essential role he played in That of Manchester City fourth in a row Premier League title and Spanish championship of Euro 2024. In response, Real Madrid boycotted the ceremony.

In an interview with Radio COPERodri revealed how he really felt about the notable absences in Paris.

“Why would it hurt me (that Vinícius Júnior is not there)?” » said Rodri. “It was my time to enjoy with my family. The last thing I would think about was the people who weren’t there and didn’t want to participate.”

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No one from Los Blancos was present to accept the Men’s Club of the Year award, nor was Carlo Ancelotti present to accept the men’s Johan Cruyff Trophy. Even Kylian Mbappé, who has just joined Real Madrid over the summer, failed to turn up, leaving Harry Kane to accept his shared Gerd Müller Trophy alone.

Real Madrid seven nominees for the Ballon d’Orincluding finalist Jude Bellingham, also remained in Madrid. Many of the club’s best players, past and present turned to social media to denounce the snub of Vinícius Júnior once the ceremony was over.

The Brazilian, who finished 41 votes behind Rodri, written the: “I’ll do it 10 times if I have to. They’re not ready.”

Although Real Madrid’s response to the move was a bold statement, it was still Rodri’s night when he took to the stage and became the first Manchester City player to win the Ballon d’Or.

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