Lionel Messi breaks silence on 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, winners

Argentina and Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi has shared his thoughts on the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony as Rodri is announced as winner.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri won the biggest accolade in football award on Monday night ahead of Real Madrid’s forward Vinicius Junior. The Spanish midfielder in the process became the first midfielder since Luka Modric in 2018 to clinch the prestigious accolade.

Meanwhile, Emiliano Martinez received the Yashin Trophy and Lamine Yamal was named the winner of the Kopa Trophy.

While Rodri’s win has sparked mixed reactions on social media, Messi has shared his thoughts on the new development.

Taking to social media after the ceremony, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi wrote: “Congratulations to all the winners and nominated ones for the Ballon d’Or 2024.

“Especially to Dibu, what a great, another award for the best goalkeeper in the world. And to Lautaro, to Scaloni and Garnacho.”

It was eventful night for Spanish football and Barcelona. Real Madrid were voted the best male club while Barcelona received the best female team award.

Meanwhile, Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati won the Ballon d’Or Feminin. Carlo Ancelotti and Emma Hayes were the Coaches of the Year.