Spanish soccer had a triumphant night at the Ballon d’Or awards ceremony in Paris, with Manchester City midfielder Rodri capturing his first Ballon d’Or and Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí winning her second consecutive Ballon d’Or Féminin.
Rodri’s exceptional performance in 2024 was pivotal for both Manchester City and the Spanish national team. He played a key role in Manchester City’s record fourth consecutive Premier League title and Spain’s Euro 2024 victory.
“It’s an incredible night for me,” Rodri said after receiving the award. “After all the hard work, after all the dark phases in my life, the light has risen now,” he added, as translated by the broadcast.
Rodri attributed his success to improving his contributions in the attacking phase. “I was a traditional midfielder, but once I realized that I needed to do better in the final third—assists, goals—that’s why my presence in terms of goals has increased in recent years.”
He also expressed gratitude to his teammates for their support. Rodri finished ahead of Real Madrid’s Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham, who placed second and third, respectively. Both players were instrumental in helping Real Madrid secure a record-extending 15th Champions League title and another La Liga championship.
Bonmatí continued to shine for Barcelona Femení, leading the team to its first-ever quadruple by winning titles in Liga F, the Champions League, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Copa de la Reina.
“I’m really thankful to be back here and win this award again,” Bonmatí said. “But this is not an individual achievement; it is a group effort. I’m fortunate to play with amazing players every day; it’s because of them that I am considered the best player now.”
Hollywood actress Natalie Portman presented Bonmatí with her award, praising her remarkable achievements. “Congratulations on a second win; it’s extraordinary what you’ve achieved two years in a row, and you are a hero to many of us,” Portman said, encouraging viewers to support women’s soccer.
Bonmatí beat out her Barcelona Femení teammates Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo, who finished second and third, respectively. “Tonight it’s me who won it, but it could have been Caroline or Salma as well,” she noted.
Additionally, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal won the Kopa Trophy for the best under-21 player in men’s football. At just 17 years old, the winger has been in outstanding form and contributed to Spain’s Euro 2024 victory.
Yamal recently made history by becoming the youngest goalscorer in El Clásico, scoring during Barcelona’s 4-0 victory over Real Madrid at just 17 years and 106 days old.
