Vinicius Jr. Named FIFA's Best Player of 2024
In a remarkable achievement, Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. was awarded the title of FIFA's Best Player for 2024 during the ceremony held in Doha, Qatar. This accolade serves as a significant consolation for Vinicius, especially after Real Madrid's decision to boycott the Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris, protesting the victory of Manchester City's Rodri. Vinicius expressed his gratitude on stage, reflecting on his journey from humble beginnings to achieving such recognition.
Alongside Vinicius, Aitana Bonmati of Barcelona was honored as the best women's player for the second consecutive year. The event also saw Carlo Ancelotti, the coach of Real Madrid, receiving the award for the best coach of the year, further highlighting the club's successful year.
Kylian Mbappé's Disappointing Ranking
In stark contrast to Vinicius's triumph, Kylian Mbappé found himself ranked ninth in the FIFA Best Player standings, trailing behind several players including Vinicius, Rodri, and Jude Bellingham. This ranking reflects a challenging year for the French striker, who, despite being a finalist, garnered only 14 points in the voting process. The voting involved contributions from team coaches, captains, journalists, and fans, showcasing a broader consensus on player performances throughout the year.
Mbappé's absence from the 'XI of the Year' further emphasizes his struggles, as he was overlooked in favor of Vinicius, Erling Haaland, and Lamine Yamal for the attacking positions.
Highlights from the FIFA The Best Ceremony
The FIFA The Best ceremony not only recognized individual talents but also introduced new awards, including the Marta award for the best women's goal, awarded to the legendary Brazilian player Marta herself. Additionally, the Puskas award for the best goal of the year went to Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester. The event celebrated the achievements of players and coaches alike, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead in football.
