Spanish midfielders Rodri and Aitana Bonmati have clinched the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or awards, recognizing their status as the world’s best footballers. The star-studded ceremony in Paris was notably snubbed by Real Madrid.
Rodri, 28, won the award for the first time on Monday, having played a crucial role in Manchester City’s Premier League victory and Spain’s European Championship triumph in July. He succeeded eight-time winner Lionel Messi and placed ahead of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, much to the displeasure of the Spanish club. In response, neither Madrid nor its players attended the event and expressed their discontent on social media.
For the first time since 2003, neither Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo — who together have won the prestigious individual award 13 times — were contenders for this year’s prize. Rodri was visibly emotional when former winner George Weah announced his name, covering his face with his hands. “Incredible night for me,” said Rodri, who is currently sidelined by an injury and arrived at the ceremony on crutches. “One of my key things is I always try to improve every game.”
Rodri, known for his hard work and selflessness, quickly shifted the praise towards others. “I just want to say thank you again to the people who recognize my value in the game,” he stated. “When I was a kid I never thought of winning the Ballon d’Or, but in the last years I’ve been playing at the highest level.” While not as flamboyant or prolific a scorer as Messi or Ronaldo, Rodri greatly influenced City’s team with his defensive skills and precise passing from the back. “I try to be a leader and try to improve every day from the best,” he added.
Bonmati retained her award after leading Barcelona to victories in the Spanish league, the Spanish Cup, and the Champions League. She joined her Barça teammate Alexia Putellas in winning two titles since the women’s trophy was first introduced in 2018. Bonmati surpassed teammates Caroline Graham Hansen of Norway and Salma Paralluelo of Spain, as Barcelona dominated the awards night with a 1-2-3 finish. “It’s a pleasure to be here again,” Bonmati commented. “Thanks to my teammates and the clubs who make me a better football player every year.”
The evening was particularly favorable for Spain and Barça players, as teenage sensation Lamine Yamal — the youngest-ever scorer at a European Championship — received the Kopa award for best under-21 player, and Barcelona was named the best women’s team.
Despite attacking midfielder Jude Bellingham finishing third and Dani Carvajal fourth in the voting, along with coach Carlo Ancelotti winning the Coach of the Year award, no representatives from Madrid attended the gala in central Paris. Ancelotti and Vinicius both shared their thoughts on social media, with Vinicius having been widely regarded as the favorite for the award.
