Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri made history by winning the Ballon d’Or on Monday, triumphing over Brazil’s Vinicius Jr. and England’s Jude Bellingham, both of Real Madrid. This prestigious award, recognizing the best player in the world, is a significant milestone for Rodri, marking his first triumph in this esteemed competition.
Key Points:
- Historic Achievement: Rodri is the first defensive midfielder to claim the Ballon d’Or since Lothar Matthäus in 1990. He is also only the third Spaniard to win the award, following legends Alfredo Di Stefano and Luis Suarez, who both achieved this honor in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
- Impressive Season: Rodri’s contributions were pivotal in helping Manchester City secure an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title. His outstanding performance during the European Championship further solidified his status, as he was named the best player of the tournament while leading Spain to a record-extending fourth title.
- Tribute to Midfielders: In his acceptance speech, Rodri emphasized that his victory represents not only his personal achievement but also a significant moment for Spanish football. He expressed gratitude to the many midfielders who have historically gone unrecognized, mentioning icons such as Andrés Iniesta, Xavi Hernández, Iker Casillas, and Sergio Busquets. “This is for Spanish football and for the figure of the midfielder,” he stated, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of players in his position.
- Emphasis on Values: Rodri described himself as a “regular guy” grounded in strong values, who strives to do things the right way. He expressed appreciation for the recognition that now brings visibility to midfielders, stating, “Many friends have written to me and told me that football has won by giving visibility to so many midfielders who work in the shadows.”
Rodri’s landmark victory not only celebrates his individual brilliance but also serves as a reminder of the vital role that midfielders play in the game. His achievement shines a spotlight on Spanish football, rekindling pride after a long absence of such recognition for Spanish players in this prestigious award. As he steps into the limelight, Rodri is poised to inspire a new generation of midfielders, proving that hard work and dedication can lead to the highest accolades in the sport.
