Spanish soccer took center stage at this year’s Ballon d’Or awards, celebrating the top talents in men’s and women’s soccer worldwide.
Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri earned his first-ever Ballon d’Or, while Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí claimed her second consecutive Ballon d’Or Féminin on Monday night.
Spain’s influence was felt throughout the ceremony in Paris, with standout teenage talent Lamine Yamal also awarded the title of Best Player Under 21.
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Rodri’s 2024 season was exceptional, playing a pivotal role in the successes of both Manchester City and Spain. City achieved a record-breaking fourth consecutive Premier League title, and Spain clinched the Euro 2024 championship this summer.
“An incredible night for me,” Rodri expressed after receiving the award. “After all the hard work, all the dark times, the light has finally risen.”
Rodri highlighted how improving his offensive play was key to his success. “I was a traditional midfielder, but I realized that to get better, I needed to contribute more in the final third – assists, goals – and that’s why I’ve increased my presence in that area over the last few years.”
The 28-year-old also thanked his club and international teammates for supporting his journey.
Rodri finished ahead of Real Madrid’s Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham, who took second and third places. Both players were instrumental in leading Real Madrid to its 15th Champions League title and another La Liga championship in 2024.
Bonmatí Leads Barcelona Femení to Historic Quadruple, Wins Second Consecutive Ballon d’Or
Aitana Bonmatí played an essential role in Barcelona Femení’s remarkable season, capturing her second consecutive Ballon d’Or after leading the team to its first-ever quadruple with victories in Liga F, the Champions League, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Copa de la Reina.
“I’m truly grateful to be here and win this award again,” Bonmatí said during her acceptance speech. “But this isn’t just an individual achievement; it’s a team effort. I’m lucky to play with such incredible teammates, and it’s because of them that I’m able to achieve this.”
Hollywood actress Natalie Portman presented Bonmatí with the award, commending her as an inspiration and encouraging audiences to support women’s soccer.
Bonmatí secured the award over her Barcelona teammates Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo, who finished in second and third place, respectively. Reflecting on her teammates’ contributions, she added, “Tonight, it’s me who won, but it could have easily been Caroline or Salma.”
Barcelona’s success extended to the Kopa Trophy, with young star Lamine Yamal recognized as the best under-21 player in men’s football. At just 17, Yamal has dazzled for Barcelona, contributing significantly to Spain’s Euro 2024 win. He recently made history by becoming the youngest goalscorer in El Clásico, finding the net during Barcelona’s 4-0 victory over Real Madrid.
Complete List of 2024 Ballon d’Or Award Winners
Men’s Ballon d’Or:
Rodri – Manchester City & Spain
Women’s Ballon d’Or:
Aitana Bonmatí – Barcelona & Spain
Gerd Müller Trophy (Top Scorer):
Harry Kane – Bayern Munich & England
Kylian Mbappé – PSG/Real Madrid & France
Yashin Trophy (Best Goalkeeper):
Emiliano Martínez – Aston Villa & Argentina
Kopa Trophy (Best Player Under-21):
Lamine Yamal – Barcelona & Spain
Socrates Award (Humanitarian Work):
Jennifer Hermoso – Club Tigres Femenil & Spain
Women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy (Coach of the Year):
Emma Hayes – Chelsea & USA
Men’s Johan Cruyff Trophy (Coach of the Year):
Carlo Ancelotti – Real Madrid
Women’s Club of the Year:
Barcelona Femení
Men’s Club of the Year:
Real Madrid
