Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr has won the FIFA Men’s Player of the Year award for 2024. The Brazilian, who missed out on the 2024 Ballon d’Or, has been crucial for Real Madrid recently and had an exceptional 2023-24 season, winning La Liga and the UEFA Champions League with Los Blancos.
The FIFA The Best 2024 awards took place this Tuesday (17) in Doha, Qatar.
Last year, Vinicius scored 24 goals and provided 11 assists in 39 appearances across all competitions. In 2024-25, he scored 13 goals and provided nine assists in 20 appearances. Although Vinicius did not have a great campaign in the 2024 Copa America with Brazil, his performances at the club level were enough to help him win the FIFA The Best award.
“It seemed impossible for me to get here on this stage… I came from a small place, close to poverty and crime. Now I am here,” said the Brazilian star upon receiving the award.
The FIFA Men’s Player award recognizes Vini Jr. for his achievements between August 21, 2023, and August 10, 2024.
A panel of 11 players was nominated, and then this list was voted on by coaches and captains of national teams, football journalists, and fans.
Rodri, Vini’s rival in the Ballon d’Or, came in second, with Bellingham in third, respectively.
With Vini’s achievement, Brazil has the world’s best player again for the first time since 2007. Kaká was the last to receive the individual recognition, 17 years ago. He becomes the sixth Brazilian to be crowned worldwide by FIFA. Ronaldo (three times), Ronaldinho Gaúcho (twice), Romário, Kaká, and Rivaldo have previously won the award.
Source: Daily Mail and UOL