Rodri Wins Ballon d'Or 2024, But Fans Claim Vinicius Jr. Was 'Robbed' of Trophy

The 28-year-old Rodri won the prestigious award for the first time after helping Manchester City win the Premier League and being a key player in Spain’s European Championship triumph. He succeeded eight-time winner Lionel Messi of Argentina and beat Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior into second place, a result which greatly displeased the Spanish club. Real Madrid and its players stayed away from the ceremony, then vented their feelings on social media. Even fans were left unhappy at the result.