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At age 28, Rodri was awarded football's prestigious Ballon d'Or in Paris after a remarkable season, in which he helped Spain secure the Euro 2024 title in July. With Manchester City, Rodri added a Premier League title, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup to his accolades. His win marks the first Ballon d'Or in Manchester City's history, topping Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. in the standings, with England's Jude Bellingham taking third—the highest an English player has placed since Frank Lampard's runner-up finish in 2005.
Real Madrid earned recognition as Club of the Year, and manager Carlo Ancelotti received the Best Men's Coach award, but no club representatives attended the event, reportedly due to disappointment that Vinicius Jr. was not the Ballon d'Or recipient.
On stage with crutches due to a recent ACL injury, Rodri described the honor as a victory not only for himself but for Spanish football. "This is for my country and the many Spanish players who deserved this honor—Iniesta, Xavi, Casillas, Busquets," he expressed. "It highlights the role of the midfielder and Spanish football as a whole."
This year's Ballon d'Or, awarded by a panel of journalists from the top 100 FIFA-ranked countries, marked the first time since 2003 without Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo among the nominees. Rodri, who placed fifth last year, credited his continued success with City and Spain's Euro 2024 championship, solidifying his influence in world football. Despite an injury in the Euros final against England, his contributions had already earned him Player of the Tournament honors. Rodri scored a personal best nine goals last season, including several decisive late-game strikes for City.
Presenting the award was George Weah, the 1995 Ballon d'Or winner. Reflecting on his achievement, Rodri noted, "Friends have told me today that football has won. This award shines a light on the critical role of midfielders, who often work behind the scenes."
Meanwhile, Real Madrid's Ancelotti took home the Johan Cruyff Trophy for best coach following a season with league and Super Cup wins and a Champions League title. Barcelona's Lamine Yamal, at only 17, claimed the Kopa Trophy for best young player after an impressive season with Barcelona and standout performance for Spain at Euro 2024. Aston Villa and Argentina's Emiliano Martinez also made history, winning the Yashin Trophy as best goalkeeper for a second consecutive year after his crucial contributions to both club and country.
