In 2024, the “Ballon d’Or” was awarded to Spanish footballer Rodri, who plays for the Spain national team and Manchester City. The award was presented at the 68th ceremony held at the Châtelet Theatre in Paris on October 28. Although Rodri was injured and arrived on crutches, he still attended the event. The award was handed to him by George Weah, the 1995 Ballon d’Or winner.
In women’s football, the “Ballon d’Or” was won by Aitana Bonmatí from Barcelona. The best goalkeeper, for the second consecutive year, was Emiliano Martínez, goalkeeper for the Argentina national team and Aston Villa. The best young player was 17-year-old Lamine Yamal from Barcelona.
However, the Madrid club Real ignored the ceremony despite their nominations. They protested against the unexpected change of favorites: the day before, it was believed that Vinícius Júnior from Real could win. At the ceremony, Real was named the best club of the season, and their coach Carlo Ancelotti received the award for the best coach of 2024, but no one from the club went on stage.
Additionally, a special award in honor of Franz Beckenbauer, who passed away in January, was accepted by his family and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, his long-time partner. Rummenigge emphasized that Beckenbauer was one of the most significant figures in world football.
