Manchester City midfielder Rodri has claimed the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or, finishing ahead of Real Madrid stars Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham in a historic triumph that marks the pinnacle of his inspiring journey. After receiving his award, the Spanish international reflected on the uncertain path that led him to football’s highest individual honour.

Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri won the men’s Ballon d’Or award on Monday after clinching a fourth consecutive Premier League title and the Euro 2024 championship. Rodri, 28, played a pivotal role as City held off Arsenal to secure last season’s Premier League title and was named Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024, where underdog Spain emerged victorious in Germany.