Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri was honored with the Ballon d’Or for the best player in the world on Monday, surpassing Brazil’s Vinicius Jr and England’s Jude Bellingham, both from Real Madrid. Meanwhile, Aitana Bonmati from Barcelona received the women’s award for the second time.
Rodri, celebrating his first Ballon d’Or victory, played a pivotal role in securing Manchester City’s record fourth consecutive Premier League title last season. He was also recognized as the best player at this year’s European Championship after Spain captured its fourth title.
At 28, Rodri, a native of Madrid, became the first defensive midfielder to win the Ballon d’Or since Lothar Matthaus in 1990 and the third Spanish player to earn this accolade, following Alfredo Di Stefano and Luis Suarez. Despite Spain’s remarkable football history, no Spaniard had claimed the award in over 60 years.
In his acceptance speech, Rodri dedicated the award to Spanish football and the many deserving players who have yet to win, including legends like Iniesta and Xavi. He also noted the importance of recognizing midfielders’ contributions in football.
This year marked a significant shift as Rodri became only the third player outside of Messi and Ronaldo to win the award since 2008, with both superstars absent from the final 30-man nominees list for the first time since 2003. Additionally, Lamine Yamal took home the Kopa Trophy for top Under-21 player, and Bonmati’s win adds to her accolades. Despite a boycott from Real Madrid during the ceremony, their manager Carlo Ancelotti won the men’s coach of the year award.
