Rodri Clinches Men’s Ballon d’Or 2024 and Bonmati Wins it for Spain

The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris was a night dominated by Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri, who triumphed over competitors from Real Madrid to claim football’s most prestigious individual award. The event was also notable for numerous other recognitions, including those for promising young talents, coaching excellence, and outstanding club achievements.

Awarding Body

• Ballon d’Or is an annual award given by France Football to the best male and female footballers over the previous year.
• This Year UEFA also partnered with France Football award.

Rodri Claims the Ballon d’Or

Rodri (Spain, Manchester City) 

• The 28-year-old secured the men’s Ballon d’Or award, celebrating his instrumental contributions to Manchester City’s success, including their Premier League win and his exceptional performance for Spain in the Euro 2024 tournament.
• Rodri edged out Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Dani Carvajal, each known for their incredible form over the season.
• Aside from his club success, Rodri was named the Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024, showcasing his vital role in Spain’s victorious campaign.

Women’s Ballon d’Or: Aitana Bonmatí

Aitana Bonmatí (Spain, Barcelona)

• For the second consecutive year, Bonmatí earned the title of the world’s best female footballer.
• Achievements: Bonmatí helped FC Barcelona win the Spanish league, the Spanish cup, and the Her outstanding season led to a 1-2-3 finish for Barcelona, with her teammates Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo following in the rankings.
• She received the award from actress Natalie Portman, who acknowledged her contributions to women’s football.

Lamine Yamal Wins Kopa Trophy

Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona) 

• The 17-year-old prodigy claimed the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best player under 21.
• Yamal played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, notably scoring a stunning goal in the semifinal against France. He also scored 16 goals at club level in the 2023/24 season.
• Yamal is now the sixth player to receive this award, joining previous winners like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham.

Men’s Club of the Year

• Real Madrid took home the Men’s Club of the Year award for the winning UEFA Champions League, La Liga and Spanish super cup. 

Coach of the Year

• Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s manager, was named Men’s Coach of the Year. His leadership led the club to success in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
•  Ancelotti accepted the award, reflecting on his team’s successes despite the club’s absence from the ceremony.

Additional Honors

Yashin Trophy (Best Goalkeeper)

Emiliano Martínez (Argentina, Aston Villa)

• Recognized for his exceptional season, including performances for Argentina’s national team.

Gerd Müller Trophy

• Shared by Kylian Mbappé (France, PSG/Real Madrid) and Harry Kane (England, Bayern Munich) for their 52-goal achievements across all competitions.

Women’s Coach of the Year

Emma Hayes (Chelsea, USA) 

• Hayes was celebrated for her success with Chelsea and her impact on the women’s game internationally.

Socrates Award

• Jenni Hermoso (Spain, Tigres UANL) – Recognized for her humanitarian efforts off the field.

Complete List of 2024 Ballon d’Or Award Winners

1. Men’s Ballon d’Or: Rodri (Manchester City, Spain)
2. Women’s Ballon d’Or: Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona, Spain)
3. Kopa Trophy: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)
4. Yashin Trophy: Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa, Argentina)
5. Men’s Coach of the Year: Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid, Italy)
6. Women’s Coach of the Year: Emma Hayes (Chelsea/USA)
7. Men’s Club of the Year: Real Madrid
8. Women’s Club of the Year: FC Barcelona
9. Gerd Müller Trophy: Kylian Mbappé (PSG/Real Madrid) & Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
10. Socrates Award: Jenni Hermoso (Spain, Tigres UANL) – Recognized for her humanitarian efforts off the field.

Most Titles

• So this year Lionel Messi was not nominated for the winners list. But he has the record of winning the award for the record 8 times which is highest in that winner’s list.

Previous Year Winners Male

2020 – Due to Covid Ballon d’or was not given.

Previous Year Winners Female

2020 – Due to Covid Ballon d’or was not given.