With a dazzling development, 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremonyThe fact that Vinicius Junior, who received great acclaim from Real Madrid, missed the grand prize caused widespread reactions from the Brazilian media, fans and players.

The annual event held in Paris crowned Spain and Manchester City’s Rodri Vinicius was left empty-handed as the winner, leading Real Madrid to boycott the event entirely.

The announcement came as a shock to many, especially considering Vinicius’ stellar season. real MadridThe football player, who shined in La Liga, Champions League and European Super Cup, scored 24 goals and made 9 assists in 39 matches.

However, Brazilian media suggested that the Copa America played a significant role in his defeat. Estedao pointed out the struggle to take Brazil to the quarter-finals and said, “Vini Jr.’s performance with the Brazilian national team may have had the heaviest impact.” A Tarde also echoed this sentiment, stating that although Vinicius was successful in club football, his poor national performance may have affected the result.

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Teammates and fans stand by Vinicius Jr. – Scornful reaction to Ballon d’Or

The Ballon d’Or snub angered Vinicius’ fans and teammates. Brazilian teammate Richarlison expressed his disappointment in a sincere post on Instagram: “Today, Brazilians woke up after such a long time, expecting another player from our country to win the world’s best award. Unfortunately, the award did not come, based on criteria that no one understood.”

Richarlison on Instagram:

“Today, Brazilians woke up after a long time expecting to see another player from our country win the award for the best in the world. Unfortunately, the award did not come, based on criteria that no one could understand. Don’t get me wrong, Rodri deserves to be among them… pic.twitter.com/3vSgd8njDc

— Brazilian Football (@BrasilEdition) 28 October 2024

Richarlison acknowledged Rodri’s excellence but described Vinicius’ exclusion as “shameful” and suggested the decision cast a shadow over the spirit of football.

Real Madrid teammate Eduardo Camavinga also wrote on Twitter: “FOOTBALL POLITICS Brother, you are the best player in the world and no award can say otherwise.”

FOOTBALL POLITICS

Brother, you are the best player in the world and no award can say otherwise. I love you bro pic.twitter.com/X3yAH1Sl0p

— Eduardo Camavinga (@Camavinga) 28 October 2024

Lucas Paqueta and Gabriel Magalhãoes also joined the overwhelming support on Instagram, calling Vinicius “the pride of our country” and “the best in the world”.

Lucas Paqueta on Instagram:

“I admire your story and the person you have become. Even if they say otherwise, you are the greatest. I love you.” pic.twitter.com/4vIjwIIRRi

— Brazilian Football (@BrasilEdition) 28 October 2024

Brazilian media have hinted that Vinicius’ activism against racism may have affected his chances. A recent post by Vinicius’ management confirmed his commitment to fighting racism and suggested he may have sacrificed his chance to win.

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Following the incident, Vinicius wrote on his social media account: “I will do this 10 times if I have to. They are not ready,” he said, emphasizing his determination to continue standing against injustice even at a personal cost.

To be exact the EU fee is 10x. Nothing is ready.

— Vini Jr. (@vinijr) 28 October 2024

Despite the odds, Vinicius’ resilience and support from teammates and fans reflect a growing recognition of his impact not only as a footballer but also as a voice for change.

As the Brazilian star moves forward, the football world continues to follow his journey, knowing that his legacy is much more than just a trophy.