Cristiano Ronaldo's latest Ballon d'Or remarks highlight the disrespect toward Man City's Rodri

When Rodri was crowned the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner back in October, the reaction should have been a celebration of his brilliance.

It should have been recognition of a midfielder at the peak of his powers, whose influence helped Manchester City secure another Premier League title and Spain claim glory at the 2024 Euros. Instead, his achievement was marred by an ongoing campaign of disrespect, which continues to simmer months later.

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo is the latest figure to fan the flames, delivering his verdict at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Friday. According to Ronaldo, it was Vinicius Junior—not Rodri—who deserved football’s highest individual accolade.

He cited Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League triumphs as justification, which prompted knowing nods from the likes of Jude Bellingham watching on. On this occasion, Vinicius was recognised with the Globe Soccer Award for Best Men's Player, but the bitterness over the Ballon d’Or outcome clearly still lingers.

It is worth noting that Real Madrid’s reaction to Rodri’s triumph has been nothing short of disgraceful. From boycotting the ceremony, to a social media frenzy led by Vinicius’ teammates, the collective outrage paints a picture of entitlement that has come to define the Galactico culture. Whatever happened to humility in victory and graciousness in defeat?

It’s worth noting that the Ballon d’Or vote was close—less than 100 points separated Rodri and Vinicius. But this wasn’t a landslide, nor was it a robbery.

Rodri’s win recognised his instrumental role in City’s domestic and European campaigns and his outstanding performances at the heart of Spain’s midfield. His achievements cannot and should not be