Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent assertion at the Globe Soccer Awards that Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. deserved the Ballon d’Or over Manchester City’s Rodri has sparked debate.
Ronaldo described the decision as “unfair,” a remark that has not gone unnoticed by the award’s eventual recipient.
Rodri’s Measured Response
Manchester City’s Rodri, who won the Ballon d’Or following his instrumental role in City’s treble-winning campaign, addressed Ronaldo’s comments with surprise.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, the midfielder expressed bewilderment, noting that Ronaldo, as a multiple-time winner, is well-versed in the voting process.
“It’s surprising, because he knows better than anyone how this award works and how the winner is chosen,” Rodri remarked.
He pointed out the consistency of the jury, emphasizing that the same journalists who voted for Ronaldo in the past determined this year’s winner.
“Probably, these same journalists were the ones who at some point voted for him to win it, and I imagine that then he would agree,” Rodri added, subtly questioning Ronaldo’s stance.
Vinicius Jr.’s Wins Globe Soccer Awards
While Rodri secured the Ballon d’Or, Vinicius Jr. did not leave the awards season empty-handed.
The Real Madrid forward claimed both FIFA’s Best Men’s Player award and Globe Soccer’s equivalent accolade, further cementing his position among football’s elite.
