Official Ballon d'Or announcement by France Football

Vinicius Junior Named FIFA's Best Men's Player of 2024, First Brazilian Since Kaká

Dec 17, 2024, 06:07 PM

Vinicius Junior, the Brazilian forward playing for Real Madrid and the Brazilian national team, has been awarded the FIFA The Best Men's Player of the Year 2024, edging out Rodri by 5 points. The award ceremony took place in Doha, Qatar, where Vinicius received the accolade in person. This marks the first time in 17 years, and the sixth time overall, that a Brazilian player has won the prestigious award since Kaká in 2007. Vinicius Junior had a stellar season with Real Madrid, contributing 24 goals and 11 assists in 39 games, helping his team win the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and the Spanish Super Cup. Despite finishing as runner-up in the 2024 Ballon d'Or, he secured FIFA's highest individual honor. In his acceptance speech, Vinicius reflected on his journey from his hometown of São Gonçalo, a small area close to poverty and crime, expressing gratitude to his family, friends, teammates, Real Madrid, Flamengo, and his country.