Real Madrid's attacker, Vinicius Junior, has just won the FIFA The Best award for the best player of 2024. Despite Rodri's presence in the running, voters crowned the 24-year-old Brazilian star.
As announced earlier in the day, Vinicius Junior, currently in Qatar to play in the 2024 Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca FC this Wednesday at the Lusail Stadium, took advantage of the opportunity to win a major trophy.
A few weeks after the 2024 Ballon d'Or fiasco, which unexpectedly went to Rodri, the 24-year-old Brazilian star wins the FIFA The Best 2024 trophy as the best player in the world.
Vinicius Junior Recognized at His True Value
FIFA The Best 2024: Vinicius Junior is the best player in the world (official)
From the hands of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and in front of Florentino Pérez, who made the trip, Vinicius officially took possession of this major trophy, which is less controversial.
This is a nice coronation for the skilled Real Madrid player, who had a stratospheric season on the attack front.
After the voting, Vinicius tallied 48 votes, ahead of Rodri, who came in second with 43 votes. Jude Bellingham, with 37 points, completed the podium.
Today, Vinicius becomes the first Brazilian to win the best player in the world award since Kaká, who was crowned in 2007. The Madrid star officially joins the exclusive circle of Brazilians who have won these prestigious individual trophies.
We're talking about legends like Kaká, Rivaldo, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho (Ballon d'Or), and Romário (FIFA World Player).
Note that Carlo Ancelotti also won the award for the best coach of the year, as reported by Afrique Sport. For the 65-year-old Italian coach, this is a confirmation after his crowning on October 28 by France Football.
Also in the running for the best goalkeeper award, Andriy Lunin was surpassed by Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano MartÃnez, who was crowned once again.