Ronaldo Responds to Vinicius Jr’s Ballon d’Or Snub

Cristiano Ronaldo called Vinicius Junior’s loss of this year’s award “unfair” on Friday. He made these comments months after Manchester City player Rodri won the Ballon d’Or in October, with favourite Vinicius in second place.

Vinicius led Madrid to a record 15th Champions League championship, while Rodri led City to a fourth consecutive Premier League win and Spain to Euro 2024. Vinicius’ Madrid snubbed this year’s Paris ceremony, causing controversy.

I think he deserved the golden ball. I say it here in front of everyone: that was unfair “Ronaldo declared at the Global Soccer Awards.

I think they should have given it to Vinicius because he won a Champions League,” the 39-year-old Portugal captain said.

Ronaldo is second only to Lionel Messi with eight Ballon d’Or wins. An worldwide panel of 100 professional journalists chooses the Ballon d’Or winner from the shortlist.