Real Madrid and Brazil winger Vinicius Jr has been crowned the FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year, marking his first triumph in one of football’s most prestigious accolades.
The 24-year-old received the award in Doha after a stellar 2023-24 season where he played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s Champions League and La Liga successes, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists.
His victory came after a notable absence from the recent Ballon d’Or ceremony, which he and his club boycotted following his second-place finish to Manchester City’s Rodri. Reflecting on his journey from playing barefoot in the streets of São Gonçalo to earning global recognition, Vinicius described the award as a dream come true.
The award, which covers performances from August 2023 to August 2024, was decided through a combination of public votes, journalists, and national team captains and managers.
Rodri and Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham were the runners-up, with voting revealing varied preferences from figures like England captain Harry Kane and Brazil’s national team representatives.
The ceremony also saw Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí named FIFA Women’s Player of the Year for the second consecutive time, adding to the evening’s highlights. Vinicius’ recognition not only cements his status as one of football’s elite but also provides a triumphant moment for Real Madrid, who are currently in Qatar for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final.
