Brazil and Real Madrid legend Ronaldo Nazario has thrown his weight behind his fellow countryman Vinicius Junior to win the Ballon d’Or.

Ronaldo is convinced that Vinicius deserves the 2024 Ballon d’Or ahead of other candidates including Rodri, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappe, who are co-favourites in the running for the award.
Ronaldo backs Vinicius for Ballon d’Or award

This week, a 30-man list was released, which includes the Real Madrid forward, and now Ronaldo, who won the Ballon d’Or twice during his playing career, has picked Vinicius as his choice to bag the prestigious award.
“I think Viní already deserves it [the Ballon d’Or]. He’s had a spectacular Champions League, a spectacular La Liga, and he’s been evolving more and more,” Ronaldo said via ESPN
“I remember that I did his presentation the day he arrived at Real Madrid and I got on well with him. I talk to Viní a lot about football and certain details and, looking at everything that’s happened, it’s a fantastic development that he’s making.
“I think his time has come. He’s been extremely decisive this year for Real Madrid. For me, today he’s the best player in the world by far.”
Although Ronaldo believes Kylian Mbappe would be a strong contender for the award if he joined Real Madrid, the Brazilian legend has chosen Vinicius Jr. as his pick. This is despite Mbappe’s recent transfer to Los Blancos and his status as one of the favorites for the award.