Historic Night for Spain: Rodri and Bonmatí Make Ballon d’Or History in Paris
In an unforgettable night for Spanish football, Manchester City’s Rodri and Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí claimed the prestigious Ballon d’Or and Ballon d’Or Féminin at the glamorous Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. Rodri, 28, edged out Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior to claim his title, while Bonmatí triumphed as the world’s best in women’s football, marking a rare dual win for Spain.
The night was full of firsts, with new awards for Men’s and Women’s Coach of the Year, claimed by Carlo Ancelotti and Chelsea’s Emma Hayes. Ancelotti’s Real Madrid achievements—guiding the team to La Liga and Champions League victories—earned him the top coaching honor for men. Hayes, who recently started her role as head coach for the USA, was celebrated for leading Chelsea to five consecutive Women’s Super League titles.
Spain’s Double Crown
This year’s ceremony made history, with both the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or trophies awarded to players from the same country for the first time in 68 years. Rodri and Bonmatí’s achievement brought national pride, with Rodri amassing 57 caps for Spain since his debut in 2018 and Bonmatí a staple of Barcelona and the Spanish national team, boasting 65 caps.
Bonmatí’s win was also a close call in terms of history-making, as her runner-up, Caroline Graham Hansen, is a Norwegian star for Barcelona. And had Vinícius Júnior, a Brazilian playing for Real Madrid, won over Rodri, the historic double triumph for Spain would have been missed.
Vinícius Júnior’s Controversial Snub
Though Vinícius was among the nominees and attended the ceremony, his loss sparked disappointment and vocal reactions from fellow players, particularly from the Premier League. Lucas Paqueta expressed his discontent on Instagram, while Wolves’ Mario Lemina shared a dramatic farewell to “football” in frustration. Tottenham’s Richarlison, echoing Brazilian pride, lamented, “Today, all Brazilians who love football woke up expecting to see another player from our country win an award of the best in the world after so long. Unfortunately, by criteria no one can understand, the prize did not come.”
Rodri’s Heartfelt Dedication
Rodri, attending the event on crutches due to a season-ending knee injury, took the stage with humility and warmth. Reflecting on his win, he began, “I have so many people to thank,” paying tribute to his girlfriend Laura, his family, and his Manchester City teammates, saying, “I know I wouldn’t be here without you.” He even extended a gracious nod to Spain teammate Dani Carvajal, a Real Madrid star, despite the notable absence of Carvajal’s clubmates due to their boycott of the ceremony.
For Rodri and Bonmatí, the night was not just a personal victory but a landmark moment for Spanish football, showcasing the spirit of teamwork and perseverance. This double triumph in Paris is sure to inspire the next generation of Spanish stars on their journey to greatness.
