After being voted best player in the world at the FIFA-The Best 2024 trophies, Vinícius Júnior received a vibrant tribute from his compatriot and football legend, Ronaldo Nazário. This coronation, which makes him the first Brazilian player to be awarded this trophy since Kaká in 2007, has a reach well beyond the field.
Ronaldo: “A symbol of resistance and resilience”
Ronaldo praised not only Vinícius Jr’s exceptional performances on the pitch – notably his key role in the La Liga-Champions League double with Real Madrid – but also his fight against racism: “We are talking about a player who is the victim of racism with inconceivable frequency. How many anonymous victims does it represent? A symbol of resistance, Vini is today at the head of the anti-racist fight in world football. »
The former Brazil striker also denounced the omission of certain football players in the face of these acts: “Those who remain silent are no less racist. They tried to erase you, my friend. And you had fun. »
A deserved coronation and a strong message
For Vinícius Jr, this trophy rewards an exceptional season marked by his decisive impact at Real Madrid and with the Seleção. During the ceremony, he said: “Yes, I am the best player in the world and I fought hard for it. »
Ronaldo concluded his tribute by highlighting the symbolism of this victory: “The best player in the world is black and Brazilian! »
