Rodri Wins 2024 Ballon d'Or, First Premier League Winner Since 2008; Spain's Aitana Bonmatí Also Honored

Oct 28, 2024, 09:46 PM

Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has been awarded the 2024 Ballon d'Or by France Football, recognizing him as the best football player in the world for the year. Rodri, 28, led Manchester City to victory in the Premier League and UEFA Super Cup, and played a pivotal role in Spain's triumph at the UEFA European Championship, where he was named Player of the Tournament. With this accolade, Rodri becomes Manchester City's first-ever Ballon d'Or winner and the first Premier League player to receive the award since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008. He is also Spain's first male winner since 1960. Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid finished second in the rankings, while Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal placed third and fourth, respectively. The ceremony in Paris showcased Spain's dominance, with Aitana Bonmatí winning the women's Ballon d'Or, making Spain the first nation to secure both men's and women's awards in the same year. Upon receiving the award, an emotional Rodri said, 'Many of my friends have written to me to say, "Football has won today!"'