Yes, Vinicius Jr. was a prominent contender and finished as the runner-up in the 2024 Ballon d'Or voting.
Vinicius Jr.'s Impressive Showing in the 2024 Ballon d'Or
Real Madrid's star forward, Vinicius Junior, achieved a remarkable feat by securing second place in the prestigious 2024 Ballon d'Or awards. This high placement underscores his exceptional performance throughout the season, establishing him as one of the world's elite footballers. The coveted award for 2024 was ultimately claimed by Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
The final standings at the top of the voting highlighted a competitive field:
| Rank | Player | Club |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Rodri | Manchester City |
| 2nd | Vinicius Junior | Real Madrid |
Following the announcement, Vinicius Junior broke his silence regarding the results. He suggested that his outspoken stance and persistent fight against racism, for which he has been a prominent advocate, might have played a role in the final outcome of the voting. His comments reflect a broader discussion on the criteria and influences that can shape such high-profile individual awards in football.
Vinicius Jr.'s second-place finish is a testament to his impact on the pitch, contributing significantly to Real Madrid's campaigns, and solidifies his status among the game's brightest talents.
