Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has claimed his first Ballon d’Or, awarded to the best footballer of the year, during a ceremony in Paris.
The 28-year-old led Spain to a Euro 2024 victory in July and contributed to Manchester City’s Premier League, UEFA Super Cup, and World Cup wins.
Rodri is the first Manchester City player to receive the Ballon d’Or, finishing ahead of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and England’s Jude Bellingham, who secured third place.
A result which greatly displeased the Spanish club. Madrid and their players stayed away from the ceremony and vented their feelings on social media.
Neither Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo — winners of the prestigious individual award a combined 13 times — were in the running for this year’s prize for the first time since 2003.
Rodri was overcome with emotions when his name was read out by former winner George Weah, putting his hands over his face.
Real Madrid won the club of the year award, with manager Carlo Ancelotti named men’s coach of the year, although no representatives attended due to an alleged boycott.
This year marked the first Ballon d’Or ceremony since 2003 without nominees Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.