Ballon d'Or 2024: Rodri & Bonmati Shine Bright in Paris
The prestigious Ballon d'Or ceremony took place in Paris on Monday, October 2, 2024, and the football world was captivated by the crowning of two exceptional talents: Rodri and Aitana Bonmati.
Rodri, the Spanish midfield maestro, captured the hearts of fans and experts alike with his consistent brilliance throughout the year. His instrumental role in Manchester City's historic treble win cemented his place as a top contender, and ultimately, he emerged victorious, becoming the first Spaniard to win the award since Luis Suárez in 1960.
Aitana Bonmati, the Catalan midfielder who starred for Barcelona, earned the coveted Ballon d'Or Féminin. Her masterful displays in midfield, her ability to dictate the tempo of the game, and her contributions to Barcelona's impressive triumphs made her a clear frontrunner. This win marks a historic moment, as Bonmati becomes the first Spaniard to win the women's award since Alexia Putellas in 2021 and 2022.
A Night of Triumph and Recognition
The ceremony was a celebration of excellence in football, recognizing the achievements of players from across the globe. Here are some of the key highlights:
- Erling Haaland finished second in the Ballon d'Or voting, narrowly missing out on the top prize after a phenomenal season with Manchester City.
- Kylian Mbappé, the French star, secured third place, showcasing his continued brilliance and solidifying his position as one of the world's best.
- Alexandra Popp, the German striker, took home the Ballon d'Or Féminin runner-up award, acknowledging her remarkable performances for both club and country.
- The Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best young player, went to Jude Bellingham, who has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the English Premier League.
- The Yashin Trophy, recognizing the best goalkeeper, went to Thibaut Courtois, who played a crucial role in Real Madrid's Champions League victory.
Looking Forward
The Ballon d'Or 2024 was a night filled with excitement, suspense, and ultimately, deserved recognition for the world's best footballers. As we move forward, the anticipation builds for the next edition of this prestigious award, and the question remains: who will be crowned the next Ballon d'Or winners?