This is the event of this week: against all odds,
Rodri beat Vinicius Jr to win the 2024 edition of the Ballon d’Or France Football. For the first time since Fabio Cannavaro’s coronation in 2006, a defensive footballer has been voted best player in the world.
A symbol of altruism, Rodri personifies a more collective vision of football, in comparison with attackers used to stacking goals and putting on a show with their dribbling. But it’s not just sporting achievements that can explain the Spaniard’s victory.
“I chose Rodri for his class and his fair play”
Maciej Iwanski was part of the voting panel for this 2024 edition. This journalist who represented Poland explained why he favored Rodri over Vinicius.
“ I chose Rodri for his class and his fair play. He has no social networks, is a university graduate and has great humility. You better appreciate Rodri by watching him for 90 minutes. In our time, young people only watch the highlights to marvel at the spectacular actions of Vinicius Junior“, thundered the Polish journalist. Comments which confirm, if necessary, to what extent the public image of football can influence this type of reward.
