In a remarkable achievement, Vinícius Jr. has been named FIFA’s Best Men’s Player of the Year for 2024, marking a significant milestone in the Brazilian winger’s career. The Real Madrid star’s performances on the field have propelled him to the top of global football, earning him the prestigious award. This honor comes after a year where Vinícius played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s successes, helping secure both the Champions League and La Liga titles in the 2023-2024 season.
Table of Contents
A Triumph in Qatar
Vinícius claimed the award at a ceremony held in Doha, Qatar, solidifying his place as one of the best players in world football. The 24-year-old emerged victorious by securing 48 votes, narrowly edging out Manchester City’s Rodri, who finished second with 43 votes. Jude Bellingham, another standout player from the past year, secured third place with 37 votes.
Vinícius Jr.’s victory marks a turn of events from his earlier disappointment in October when he lost out to Rodri for the Ballon d’Or. Following that setback, he, along with his club, chose to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony. However, his return to the spotlight in Qatar proved to be a more satisfying moment as he took home FIFA’s most coveted individual accolade.
The Numbers Behind Vinícius’ Victory
Vinícius Jr.’s award was a reflection of his outstanding contributions to Real Madrid’s success in the 2023-24 campaign. Throughout the season, he scored 24 goals and provided 11 assists, demonstrating his immense value to the team. His explosive pace, technical ability, and clutch performances in key matches have made him one of the most electrifying players in the world.
This season’s triumphs, particularly in the Champions League and La Liga, were vital in catapulting him to the top of FIFA’s rankings. Vinícius was instrumental in helping Madrid secure the Champions League and La Liga titles, two of the most prestigious trophies in club football. His influence on the pitch was undeniable, and his performances were pivotal to Real Madrid’s dominance throughout the season.
FIFA’s Voting System and Award Details
The Best FIFA Men’s Player of the Year award is decided through a complex voting process that takes into account various perspectives. Each vote is cast by a combination of the general public, journalists from every country, and the captains and managers of national teams.
The votes from these three groups are weighted equally, with each group’s vote representing 25% of the total score. This ensures that the award reflects a broad spectrum of opinion from different sectors of the football world.
A First-Time Winner and a Changing of the Guard
For Vinícius, this was his first FIFA Best award, making it an even more special achievement. Previous winners of the award, such as Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski, had dominated the individual footballing accolades in recent years. Messi had won the award in 2022 and 2023, and Lewandowski had claimed it in 2020 and 2021. Vinícius Júnior’s victory signals a shift in the global footballing landscape, as younger players continue to rise to prominence, challenging the established stars for the top honors.
Real Madrid’s Continued Dominance
Vinícius Júnior’s triumph was not the only reason Real Madrid had reason to celebrate in Doha. Manager Carlo Ancelotti was also honored with the Coach of the Year award.
Under his leadership, Madrid secured a remarkable double, winning both the Champions League and La Liga in the 2023-24 season. The combination of a world-class player and a visionary coach has once again placed Real Madrid at the pinnacle of club football.
Read More: Chelsea’s Mykhailo Mudryk Provisionally Suspended After Positive Drugs Test
FAQs
Who won FIFA’s Best Men’s Player of the Year 2024?
Vinícius Júnior of Real Madrid won the award, defeating Manchester City’s Rodri by five votes.
How many votes did Vinícius Júnior receive to win the award?
Vinícius Júnior received 48 votes, while Rodri secured 43 votes, and Jude Bellingham finished third with 37 votes.
What was Vinícius Júnior’s role in Real Madrid’s 2023-24 season?
Vinícius played a pivotal role in helping Real Madrid win both the Champions League and La Liga, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists.
What voting system is used to decide FIFA’s Best Men’s Player of the Year?
The award is decided by votes from the public, journalists, and national team captains and managers, with each group’s vote counting for 25%.
Who else from Real Madrid was recognized at the FIFA Best awards?
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti was named Coach of the Year after leading the team to victory in both the Champions League and La Liga.
