Mon Oct 28 23:58:23 UTC 2024: ## Rodri Crowned Ballon d’Or Winner in Paris

Spanish midfielder Rodri, playing for both Spain and Manchester City, was named the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner on Monday evening in a ceremony held at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris. The 28-year-old played a key role in Manchester City’s Premier League title win and Spain’s European Championship victory.

“It’s a special day for me, my family, and my country,” Rodri said upon receiving the award. “I always try to improve, and I’m just a normal guy who enjoys sport and my profession. I want to show kids that you don’t have to be crazy to succeed, just do your best.”

Real Madrid, however, seemingly boycotted the ceremony after their star player, Vinicius Jr., failed to win the coveted award. Vinicius Jr., along with his teammates and manager Carlo Ancelotti, were absent from the ceremony. Despite the snub, Real Madrid was still awarded the “Men’s Club of the Year” award.

Aitana Bonmati, who led Barcelona Femeni to a treble-winning season and Spain to the Women’s World Cup victory, won the prestigious Women’s Ballon d’Or. Barcelona Femeni also received the “Best Women’s Club” award.

Other notable award winners included Emiliano Martinez for “Best Goalkeeper,” Lamine Yamal for “Best Young Player,” and Emma Hayes for “Best Women’s Coach.” The coveted “Gerd Muller Award” for most goals scored was shared by Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe, who both scored 52 goals in 2024.

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