• Football maestro Lionel Messi reportedly sent a congratulatory message to Rodri after the latter won the Ballon d’Or.
• Messi, who has won the coveted prize eight times, did not hesitate to share the Manchester City star’s joy.
• Although Rodri’s Ballon d’Or success over Vinicius came as a surprise, he received heartwarming messages from fans and pundits.

Lionel Messi sent a personal message to Rodri after the Manchester City The midfield pivot won the 2024 Ballon d’Or on October 28.

The Spaniard celebrated his first win of the coveted prize at the Théâtre du Châtelet, Paris, edging out Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, who took second place, while Jude Bellingham completed the top three.

Rodri beats Vinicius for Ballon d’Or

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Video shows how newly crowned Ballon d’Or Rodri celebrated his win

Prior to the ceremony, speculation had heavily favored Vinicius as the favorite, France24 reports.

However, reports surfaced just before the announcement that Rodri had garnered more votes, a nod to his remarkable contributions to Man City’s success and Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.

Real Madrid, however, did not hide their discontent, accusing Ballon d’Or organizers France Soccer in collaboration with UEFA, of “lack of respect” for having neglected Vinicius and Dani Carvajal.

Despite this controversy, Rodri has received praise from his peers and media figures.

Messi sends message to Ballon d’Or winner

Among his well-wishers was Messi, the all-time leader in Ballon d’Or wins, who reportedly sent Rodri his congratulations shortly after the Spaniard acknowledged him in his acceptance speech.

During his speech, Rodri hailed Messi as a “role model” and acknowledged the Argentine’s long-standing dominance on the Ballon d’Or stage.

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Real Madrid star congratulates Rodri after beating Vinicius to Ballon d’Or

According to the Twitter account @RealTolmie via SportBIBLEMessi extended his hand to the new winner, a gesture of sportsmanship that bridged generations of footballing excellence.

Real Madrid’s Carvajal sends message to Rodri

On a related note, Rodri shared that he received a heartfelt congratulatory message from a Real Madrid player following his victory at the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

at Rodri’s tribute in Carvajal highlights a bond that transcends club rivalries, highlighting the mutual respect and sportsmanship that are integral to the competitive spirit of football.

Rodri celebrates after Ballon d’Or win

Yet, when it comes to matters related to the Ballon d’Or, YEN.com.gh previously reported Rodri celebrates his recent success to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

The Spanish midfielder overtook fan favorite Vinicius to become the first midfielder since Luka Modric in 2018 to win the award.

Rodri wasn’t alone in his joy, as Barcelona’s players were also reportedly delighted with his victory over Vinicius.

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How Barcelona stars celebrated Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win over Vinicius Junior

Source: YEN.com.gh