After a heart-wrenching loss in the Ballon d’Or voting, Real Madrid’s Brazilian sensation Vinicius Jr. bounced back with a thunderous victory, earning the prestigious title of The Best FIFA Men’s Player at the star-studded award ceremony in Doha, Qatar.
This marks a significant milestone in Vinicius’s career as he becomes the fifth player to clinch this coveted accolade, which has been bestowed since 2016. The trophy has seen legends like Lionel Messi (three-time winner) and Cristiano Ronaldo (two-time winner) take center stage, alongside others like Robert Lewandowski and Luka Modric.
Vinicius Jr.’s Heartfelt Acceptance Speech
In a moving acceptance speech, Vinicius opened up about his journey, reflecting on the challenges he faced growing up. “It’s hard to believe I’ve come this far,” he shared, touching on his humble beginnings in a world riddled with poverty and crime. “This is for all the kids who dream of a better life.” He expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him—from his family to teammates and coaches. “I hope to wear this Real Madrid jersey for many more years because it’s the best club in the world,” he declared, igniting the crowd’s admiration.
Ancelotti and Real Madrid Dominate the Evening
Not to be outdone, Real Madrid’s mastermind coach Carlo Ancelotti also enjoyed the limelight, taking home the Coach of the Year award. Under his guidance, Los Blancos secured another Champions League title, along with the LaLiga and Supercopa de Espana.
With a grin, Ancelotti dedicated his win to the club, praising both his players and president. “They may not always listen to me—that’s just a myth,” he joked, reflecting on his nearly five-decade-long career in football. His words struck a chord, showcasing the ups-and-downs an athlete experiences throughout their journey.
The night was a grand showcase for Real Madrid, who saw five players included in the FIFA FIFPro Men’s World 11, bolstering their claim as a powerhouse in world football. Joining Vinicius were defenders Dani Carvajal and Rudiger, midfielders Bellingham and the recently retired Toni Kroos, along with the incomparable Ancelotti on the sidelines.
Aitana Bonmati Shines in Women’s Football
In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmati of Barcelona triumphed as the Best Women’s Player of the Year, making history as she secured her second The Best award. This victory follows her Ballon d’Or win, showcasing her exceptional talent and solidifying her position in the sport. Aitana’s consecutive wins highlight the rise of Spanish football on the global stage, succeeding the legendary Alexia Putellas.