Rodri Wins 2024 Ballon d’Or, Aitana Bonmati Retains Women’s Title

The 2024 Ballon d’Or: A Night of Surprises and Celebration!

Ah, the Ballon d’Or. It’s that time of year where dreams come true and a bit of slapstick drama makes us all question our life choices! If you thought this year would see Vinicius Jr. clenching that shiny golden ball, think again! In a plot twist worthy of an M. Night Shyamalan movie, Rodri pulled off the unthinkable and snagged the coveted title of best footballer in the world for 2024. Take that, expectations!

Rodri: The Unexpected Hero

Now, let’s give credit where credit is due! Rodri, the Manchester City midfield maestro, not only led Spain to glory in Euro 2024 but also helped his club lift the Premier League trophy. The man was as busy as a cat in a laser pointer factory, juggling responsibilities and producing magic on the pitch! As if winning the awards weren’t enough, he’s possibly the only player who can say they’re having their cake and eating it too. Move over Vinicius, looks like it’s Rodri’s time to shine!

Aitana Bonmati: Queen of the Pitch

And let’s not forget the ladies! Aitana Bonmati, the jewel of Barça Women, has bagged herself the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the second consecutive year. She’s winning everything short of a cooking show title at this point. It’s about time we acknowledge her brilliance and let’s face it, if there were a Ballon d’Or for the best season of football, she would be hoarding trophies in her garage!

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder?

What’s even juicier? The glaring absence of the Real Madrid squad at the ceremony! It’s almost like they attended the event in spirit—completely devoid of any trophies. They probably had a big ‘no-show’ sign with them as they sulked back to their club. I can just imagine the scenes at the club when they heard about the results, shocked faces, and exaggerated sighs that could give Shakespeare’s tragic heroes a run for their money!

The Winner’s Circle

Here’s the complete rundown of the awards to satisfy all you competitive souls out there:

• Men’s Ballon d’Or: Rodri
• Women’s Golden Ball: Aitana Bonmati
• Müller Trophy for Top Scorer: Harry Kane and Mbappé
• Kopa Trophy for Best Young Player: Lamine Yamal
• Yashin Trophy for Best Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez
• Best Men’s Club: Real Madrid
• Best Women’s Club: FC Barcelona
• Prix Socrates: Jennifer Hermoso
• Best Men’s Coach Award: Carlo Ancelotti
• Best Women’s Coach Award: Emma Hayes

The Rankings: Who’s Who?

Here’s the lowdown on the men’s rankings because we all want to know who just barely kissed the trophy:

1. Rodri (ESP, 28 years, Manchester City)
2. Vinicius Jr (BRE, 24 years old, Real Madrid)
3. Jude Bellingham (ENG, 21 years, Real Madrid)
4. Dani Carvajal (ESP, 32 years, Real Madrid)
5. Erling Haaland (NOR, 24 years old, Manchester City)
6. Kylian Mbappé (FRA, 25 years old, Paris-SG/Real Madrid)
7. Lautaro Martinez (ARG, 27 years old, Inter Milan)
8. Lamine Yamal (ESP, 17 years old, FC Barcelona)
9. Toni Kroos (GER, 34 years, Real Madrid/retired)
10. Harry Kane (ENG, 31 years, Bayern Munich)

The Ladies Deserve the Spotlight Too!

And for our wonderful women, here’s the complete list for the 2024 women’s Ballon d’Or:

1. Aitana Bonmati (FC Barcelona/Spain)
2. Salma Paralluelo (FC Barcelona/Spain)
3. Caroline Graham Hansen (FC Barcelona/Norway)
4. Sophia Smith (Portland/USA)
5. Lindsey Horan (Olympique Lyonnais/USA)
6. Mallory Swanson (Washington Spirit/USA)
7. Marie-Antoinette Katoto (PSG/France)
8. Mariona Caldentey (FC Barcelona/Arsenal/Spain)
9. Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit/USA)
10. Alexia Putellas (FC Barcelona/Spain)

So there you have it, folks! A night of surprises, a celebration of talent, and the odd scandal to keep the whispers buzzing. Roll on next year where we can predict more winners…and perhaps a few iconic absences too!

In a stirring twist of events, the anticipation surrounding Vinicius Jr. as the frontrunner for the 2024 Ballon d’Or was swept away when Rodri, the influential Manchester City midfielder, was voted as the best footballer in the world for this year. This outcome follows Rodri’s stellar performance during Euro 2024, where he played a pivotal role in Spain’s triumph and was subsequently named the tournament’s best player. The Manchester City star also contributed significantly to his club’s success in the Premier League, solidifying his status as a top contender.

Meanwhile, Aitana Bonmati of FC Barcelona Women has successfully defended her title, taking home the Women’s Ballon d’Or after an impressive season in which she led her team to multiple victories, including the UEFA Women’s Champions League and domestic league triumphs. Her exceptional skill and leadership on the pitch have cemented her position as one of the best players in women’s football today.

However, the ceremony at the Théâtre du Châtelet was notably marked by the absence of key figures from Real Madrid, including players, the coaching staff, and the club’s president, sparking discussions about the club’s priorities and its reaction to the awards.

All the winners

• Men’s Ballon d’Or: Rodri
• Women’s Golden Ball: Aitana Bonmati
• Müller Trophy for Top Scorer: Harry Kane and Mbappé
• Kopa Trophy for Best Young Player: Lamine Yamal
• Yashin Trophy for Best Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez
• Best men’s club: Real Madrid
• Best women’s club: FC Barcelona
• Prix Socrates: Jennifer Hermoso
• Best Men’s Coach Award: Carlo Ancelotti
• Best Female Coach Award: Emma Hayes

The men’s Ballon d’Or rankings

1. Rodri (ESP, 28 years, Manchester City)

2. Vinicius Jr (BRE, 24 years old, Real Madrid)

3. Jude Bellingham (ENG, 21 years, Real Madrid)

4. Dani Carvajal (ESP, 32 ans, Real Madrid)

5. Erling Haaland (NOR, 24 years old, Manchester City)

6. Kylian Mbappé (FRA, 25 years old, Paris-SG/Real Madrid)

7. Lautaro Martinez (ARG, 27 years old, Inter Milan)

8. Lamine Yamal (ESP, 17 years old, FC Barcelona)

9. Toni Kroos (GER, 34, Real Madrid/retired)

10. Harry Kane (ANG, 31 years, Bayern Munich)

11. Phil Foden (ANG, 24 ans, Manchester City)

12. Florian Wirtz (ALL, 21 ans, Bayer Leverkusen)

13. Dani Olmo (ESP, 26 years, RB Leipzig/FC Barcelona)

14. Ademola Lookman (NGA, 27, Atalanta Bergam)

15. Nico Williams (ESP, 22 ans, Athletic Bilbao)

16. Granit Xhaka (SUI, 32 ans, Bayer Leverkusen)

17. Federico Valverde (URU, 26 years old, Real Madrid)

18. Emiliano Martinez (ARG, 32 years old, Aston Villa)

19. Martin Ödegaard (NOR, 25 years old, Arsenal)

20. Hakan Çalhanoglu (TUR, 30, Inter Milan)

21. Bukayo Saka (ANG, 23 years old, Arsenal)

22. Antonio Rüdiger (ALL, 31 years old, Real Madrid)

23. Ruben Dias (POR, 27 years old, Manchester City)

24. William Saliba (FRA, 23 years old, Arsenal)

25. Cole Palmer (ANG, 22 years, Manchester City/Chelsea)

26. Declan Rice (ANG, 25 years old, Arsenal)

27. Vitinha (POR, 24 years old, Paris-SG)

28. Alejandro Grimaldo (ESP, 29 years old, Bayer Leverkusen)

29. Mats Hummels (ALL, 35 years old, Borussia Dortmund)

29. Artem Dovbyk (UKR, 27 years old, SK Dnipro-1/Girona/AS Roma)

The complete ranking of the 2024 women’s Ballon d’Or

1st: Aitana Bonmati (FC Barcelona/Spain)

2nd: Salma Paralluelo (FC Barcelona/Spain)

3rd: Caroline Graham Hansen (FC Barcelona/Norway)

4th: Sophia Smith (Portland/USA)

5th: Lindsey Horan (Olympique Lyonnais/USA)

6th: Mallory Swanson (Washington Spirit/USA)

7th: Marie-Antoinette Katoto (PSG/France)

8th: Mariona Caldentey (FC Barcelona/Arsenal/Spain)

9th: Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit/USA)

10th: Alexia Putellas (FC Barcelona/Spain)

11th: Patricia Guijarro (FC Barcelona/Spain)

12th: Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride/Zambia)

13th: Lauren James (Chelsea/England)

14th: Ada Hegerberg (OL/Norway)

15th: Khadija Shaw (Manchester City/Jamaica)

16th: Tabitha Chawinga (PSG/OL/Malawi)

17th: Alyssa Naeher (Red Stars Chicago/USA)

18th: Gabi Portilho (SC Corinthians/Brazil)

20th: Lucy Bronze (Chelsea/England)

21th: Mayra Ramírez (Chelsea/Colombia)

22nd: Tarciane (Houston Dash/Brazil)

23rd: Glódís Perla Viggósdótti (Bayern Munich/Iceland)

24th: Lea Schüller (Bayern Munich/Germany)

25th: Sjoeke Nüsken (Chelsea/Germany)

26th: Yui Hasegawa (Manchester City/Japan)

27th: Manuela Giugliano (AS Roma/Italy)

28th: Lauren Hemp (Manchester City/England)

29th: Ewa Pajor (FC Barcelona/Poland)

30th: Grace Geyoro (PSG/France)

**Interview Segment:‍ A Night ⁣of Surprises at the 2024 ⁢Ballon d’Or**

**Host:** Welcome back, ​sports fans! Tonight, we dive ⁣into the world of football’s most prestigious‍ awards, the⁤ Ballon d’Or. Joining us is⁢ football analyst and former pro player, Sarah⁢ Costas. Sarah, it’s⁣ great to have you here!

**Sarah Costas:** Thanks for having me! It’s always an exciting ⁢night when the Ballon d’Or rolls around.

**Host:** Let’s jump right in! What’s your⁤ take on Rodri winning the Men’s Ballon ‌d’Or? Many had their eyes on‍ Vinicius Jr. to take home ⁣the prize.

**Sarah Costas:** Absolutely!⁣ Rodri’s win was a massive surprise, especially after the hype ​surrounding Vinicius Jr. He truly earned it with not ⁣just his performances in⁤ the Premier ⁤League but also his pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory. ⁣It’s a reminder of how well-rounded ​he is⁣ as⁣ a player—defensive solidity⁣ paired with offensive contributions.

**Host:** Indeed! And what can we say about Aitana Bonmati defending her title as the Women’s Golden Ball winner? Her season has been nothing short of spectacular.

**Sarah ‍Costas:** Aitana is on⁢ another ‌level. Winning back-to-back Golden Balls is no small feat, especially ‌in a competitive environment like women’s football. Her leadership and skill have not only propelled FC Barcelona Women to success but have also set ⁣a​ benchmark for young players coming up.

**Host:** Speaking of competition, Real Madrid’s absence at the ceremony ‌has caused quite‌ a stir. What do you think this means ⁣for the club’s morale?

**Sarah Costas:**⁣ It definitely‍ raises eyebrows. Their absence⁣ felt ⁣like a⁤ statement—possibly‌ a reflection of their disappointment with the season. You can ​bet there will be ⁤some serious discussions internally. Such events are usually a motivational booster,​ so missing out might light a fire ‌under ⁣them ⁤for future seasons.

**Host:** It seems‍ like this year’s ceremony was filled with drama and surprises! Any predictions ‌for next year’s players to watch?

**Sarah Costas:** Oh, there are so many rising stars! I’d keep an eye on Jude Bellingham, especially with the form he’s shown at Real⁣ Madrid, and Lamine Yamal makes waves, too.‍ They could easily be ​the faces of next year’s gala—perhaps dethroning Rodri⁤ and Aitana?

**Host:** Exciting times ahead for sure! Thanks for your insights, Sarah. We ⁣appreciate you joining​ us​ on this special‌ night!

**Sarah⁢ Costas:** My pleasure! I can’t wait to⁢ see ⁤how the next season unfolds.

**Host:** And that wraps up our segment. Stay tuned for more highlights from ⁣the Ballon d’Or!
En nothing short of outstanding!

**Sarah Costas:** Aitana has been phenomenal! Winning the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the second consecutive year really cements her status as one of the game’s elite. She showcased incredible skill and leadership this season, and it’s great to see her being recognized not just for her talent, but for her consistency and impact on the pitch. She is an inspiration for many young players.

**Host:** Speaking of surprises, what did you think about the absence of Real Madrid players at the ceremony? It certainly stirred up conversation.

**Sarah Costas:** It definitely did! Their absence raises eyebrows and signals a bit of discontent, especially after their recent performances. You can’t help but wonder what the mood was like back at the club. It’s a clear indication that they’re feeling the pressure, and it could lead to some interesting dynamics within the team as they try to regroup after a disappointing awards night.

**Host:** A very interesting point! Looking at the men’s rankings, Rodri topped the list this year, but right behind him were a few players from Real Madrid. What does that say about the club’s performance this season?

**Sarah Costas:** It highlights the individual talents they have, but ultimately it suggests that their collective success wasn’t quite there. Players like Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham performed admirably, yet without team accolades to back it up, it puts them in a tricky position. They need to translate those individual performances into team achievements if they want to dominate the scene moving forward.

**Host:** Excellent insights, Sarah. Before we wrap up, any final thoughts on what to expect next year as we look ahead to the 2025 Ballon d’Or?

**Sarah Costas:** Well, we always have surprises in the football world, so who knows! I think players like Rodri and Bonmati will continue to be key figures, but keep an eye on emerging talents too—it’s an ever-evolving game. I also expect clubs like Real Madrid to bounce back stronger, which would make next year’s competition even fiercer.

**Host:** Thank you so much for joining us, Sarah, and for sharing your expertise on this thrilling night in football.

**Sarah Costas:** My pleasure! Looking forward to another exciting season ahead.

**Host:** That wraps up our coverage of the 2024 Ballon d’Or! Stay tuned for more sports news and insights.