Without a doubt, the biggest news in the lead-up to the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, and possibly one of the loudest of the current season, was the confirmation that Vinicius Junior would not attend the awards ceremony in Paris, just like no representative from Real Madrid, after the Spanish football entity received news that the award would go to Manchester City midfielder, Rodri, a situation that ultimately became a reality.
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The news was a real bucket of cold water for fans of the Brazilian forward, but also for the player himself, as several Spanish media outlets, such as Sport, reported that he had prepared a series of celebrations with his closest circle, who had also been invited to the gala.
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Cancellations after disappointment
Approximately 20 people from his personal circle were going to accompany him in the French capital to share the moment of the award ceremony. They would be joined by figures from Real Madrid such as Carlo Ancelotti, the coach, and Florentino Pérez, president of the club, who ultimately did not attend the event either.
Vini Jr. had planned to wear a specially designed formal suit for the ceremony and organize an exclusive party in a private venue in Paris, where he hoped to celebrate the consecration with friends, family, and some teammates.
Social media quickly reacted to the controversial decision of the Real Madrid board that none of its players attend the event, an attitude that many labeled as being "sore losers." It is worth noting that the absence was also noticeable when Ancelotti was conspicuously absent when he was chosen as the best coach at the 68th annual Ballon d'Or ceremony, presented by France Football magazine.
The end of October 2024 was a real nightmare for Vinicius and Real Madrid, as in just 72 hours they were left without the highest individual award for a player and also suffered a resounding defeat at home against their arch-rival, Football Club Barcelona.
On social media, Vini Jr. reacted arrogantly and said, "I will do it 10 times if necessary. They are not ready." No mention of Rodri, the real best player of the 2024 season.