Rodri’s Ballon d’Or Triumph: A Testament to Perseverance and Team Spirit
In a dazzling ceremony in Paris, Rodri etched his name in history as the first Manchester City player to win the Ballon d’Or, but his journey to this prestigious honor almost ended in despair. The Spanish midfielder revealed that he nearly walked away from football as a teenager, making his triumph all the more poignant.
Rodri’s unexpected victory came amidst controversy, as Real Madrid boycotted the ceremony after their star, Vinicius Jr, finished second. Yet, Rodri’s achievements on the pitch speak volumes. He played a pivotal role in securing a fourth consecutive Premier League title and was named Player of the Tournament as Spain triumphed in Euro 2024.
His award symbolizes a shift in football, showcasing that success stems from teamwork rather than individual stardom. Since Kaka’s win in 2007, only Luka Modric (2018) and Karim Benzema (2022) have broken the duopoly of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have dominated the awards for over a decade.
Appearing on crutches due to recent ACL surgery, Rodri said, “We are often overshadowed by more attacking players, but this time it is our turn. I am just a normal boy who profits from his job. I try to be a good teammate and give the best version of myself.”
Reflecting on the historical significance of his win, he continued, “I have a thought for all the great midfielders who have won the Ballon d’Or before me. Messi and Ronaldo, the two best players in history, have long confiscated this trophy, but they are no longer here. Their absence launches a new era with many great players. Football has won.”
Rodri’s victory marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the first Spanish male to receive the award since Luis Suarez in 1960. His Manchester City teammate Ilkay Gundogan celebrated the moment, stating, “From today on, he is finally not ‘underrated’ anymore. I’m especially happy that someone in a defensive position is winning this title and not always just the offensive players.”
Under the guidance of Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid and Pep Guardiola at City, Rodri has evolved into the ideal modern midfielder. He added, “Winning the Ballon d’Or is the realization of a dream and a genuine honor for me. However, individual prizes are often the result of strong team performances, and I am eternally grateful to everyone at Manchester City.”
Expressing gratitude towards his teammates, he stated, “My teammates are the best. I could not ask for more from them, both personally and professionally. The support I receive from every department at the club allows me to focus on my football and perform at my very best. I am very fortunate to call myself a Manchester City player. My focus now is on returning to full fitness and donning the City shirt again.”
Rodri also shared insights from his challenging journey to the top, recalling, “When I was 17, I packed my suitcases and went to Villarreal with a dream to work in the Premier League. One day, I called my father crying, telling him it was all over and that I had invested my life to get here. I felt like this was it. My father said we had come all the way here; let’s keep going. That changed my mindset, and now, here I am.”
He concluded with a message to young athletes: “I am going to keep doing what got me here. Work, well done, can allow you to reach a very high level. This is my formula for success, which I hope will happen again.”
Rodri’s inspiring story is not just about individual achievement; it’s a powerful reminder of resilience, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
