Rodri ballon Dor Response To Great Ronaldo is very straight forward and poking 2025

Manchester City midfielder Rodri made headlines when he clinched the 2024 Rodri Ballon dOr, sparking a wave of discussions in the football world. The win, however, wasn’t without controversy, as five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo criticized the decision, arguing that Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior was more deserving. Rodri has now responded to Ronaldo’s comments, defending the legitimacy of his victory and reflecting on how the award has impacted his life and career.

Ronaldo’s Criticism of Rodri Ballon dOr Win

Ronaldo Advocates for Vinícius Júnior

Cristiano Ronaldo’s critique centered on Vinícius Júnior’s exceptional season, during which the Brazilian played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s Champions League and La Liga triumphs. Ronaldo pointed to Vinícius’ decisive goal in the Champions League final as evidence of his deservingness for the Ballon d’Or.

Ronaldo’s comments reignited a familiar debate about the award’s criteria, questioning whether team success or individual performance should hold more weight.

Rodri’s Response to Ronaldo

Rodri Defends His Victory

In an interview with Diario AS, Rodri expressed surprise at Ronaldo’s remarks, noting that the Portuguese star is well aware of how the Ballon d’Or selection process works. “I’m surprised because he knows better than anyone how this award is decided,” Rodri said. He reminded critics that the same voting system had once supported Ronaldo’s wins. “The journalists who voted for me this year likely voted for him in the past, and I’m sure he agreed with their decisions then.”

Acknowledging Vinícius’ Achievements

While defending his win, Rodri also acknowledged Vinícius’ impressive season, praising the Brazilian’s contributions to Real Madrid. However, he emphasized that the Ballon d’Or recognizes overall excellence, including individual performances, team achievements, and influence on the pitch.

The Backlash and Real Madrid’s Boycott

Real Madrid’s dissatisfaction with the Ballon d’Or outcome led the club to boycott the award ceremony in Paris. The decision highlighted the intensity of the debate surrounding Vinícius’ exclusion from the top prize. Despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or, Vinícius didn’t leave 2024 empty-handed; he won the FIFA Best Men’s Player Award and the Globe Soccer Best Men’s Player prize in December.

Rodri Reflects on Life After Winning the Ballon d’Or

A Life-Changing Experience

For Rodri, the Ballon d’Or win marked a turning point in his career and personal life. “Winning the Ballon d’Or has changed my life,” he admitted, adding that certain aspects of his daily routine had to be adjusted. Nevertheless, Rodri views these changes positively, calling them “a good reason” to adapt.

Maintaining Focus Amid Challenges

Rodri’s journey hasn’t been without obstacles. The midfielder suffered a serious ACL injury in September, sidelining him during a pivotal part of the season. Despite the setback, he remains optimistic and focused on overcoming challenges. “You have to take life as it comes, without complaining or losing control when things go well,” he said. His resilience reflects the mentality of a true champion, one who embraces both success and adversity with gratitude.

The Ballon d’Or Debate: What Makes a Winner?

The Ballon d’Or has always sparked debates about the criteria for choosing the winner. While some argue that team achievements, such as league titles and Champions League victories, should take precedence, others believe that individual brilliance and consistency are the most critical factors.

Rodri’s triumph underscores the complexity of the selection process. His standout performances for Manchester City, including their Premier League title and his crucial role in Spain’s European Championship victory, made him a strong candidate. However, Ronaldo’s defense of Vinícius highlights how closely contested the award can be, especially in a year where multiple players shine.

Conclusion

Rodri’s 2024 Ballon d’Or win has sparked widespread debate, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s criticism amplifying the discussion. Despite the controversy, Rodri remains steadfast in defending his victory, emphasizing the integrity of the selection process and his accomplishments throughout the year.

The Ballon d’Or debate reflects the broader conversation about how footballing excellence should be measured. While team achievements and individual brilliance will always vie for prominence, one thing remains clear: Rodri’s triumph is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and undeniable impact on the pitch.

🚨🗣️ Rodri: “Ronaldo saying Viní deserved the B’dOr? Well, it was a surprise, because he knows better than anyone how this award works and how the winner is chosen.”

“This year, the journalists who vote have decided that I should win it. Probably these same journalists were the… pic.twitter.com/gZguavcxYI

— Pubity Sport (@pubitysport) January 2, 2025

FAQs About the Ballon d’Or and Rodri’s Victory

1. Why did Rodri win the 2024 Ballon d’Or?

Rodri won the Ballon d’Or for his exceptional contributions to Manchester City’s Premier League success and Spain’s European Championship victory. His consistency, leadership, and versatility made him a standout performer throughout the year.

2. What were Cristiano Ronaldo’s criticisms about Rodri’s win?

Ronaldo criticized Rodri’s selection, arguing that Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior was more deserving due to his pivotal role in Real Madrid’s Champions League and La Liga triumphs.

3. How did Rodri respond to Ronaldo’s comments?

Rodri expressed surprise at Ronaldo’s remarks, emphasizing that the Ballon d’Or voting process is well-established and that similar systems had once supported Ronaldo’s wins.

4. Why did Real Madrid boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony?

Real Madrid boycotted the ceremony to protest the decision to award Rodri the Ballon d’Or over Vinícius Júnior, who had an outstanding season with the club.

5. What awards did Vinícius Júnior win in 2024?

Despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or, Vinícius won the FIFA Best Men’s Player Award and the Globe Soccer Best Men’s Player prize in 2024.

6. How has Rodri’s life changed since winning the Ballon d’Or?

Rodri has experienced significant changes in his daily life and increased public attention since winning the award. However, he remains focused on his career and overcoming challenges, including a recent ACL injury.

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