Manchester City star Rodri has responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s comments about the Ballon d’Or, defending the integrity of the voting process. The Portuguese icon had suggested that Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. was more deserving of the award than Rodri, despite the Manchester City midfielder’s achievements.
In an exclusive interview with *AS*, Rodri expressed his surprise at Ronaldo’s remarks, highlighting that the former Ballon d’Or winner is well-acquainted with how the award is decided. Rodri remarked:
“Honestly, it’s surprising because Cristiano Ronaldo knows better than anyone how this award works and how the winner is chosen. This year, the journalists decided I should win it. These same journalists likely voted for him to win multiple times in the past, and I assume he agreed with their decision back then.”
When asked how winning the Ballon d’Or had impacted his life, the Spaniard reflected on the changes it brought:
“Yes, it has changed my life. I’ve spoken with those close to me about it. I may not have fully realized it at first, but it has altered how I experience public life. Many things I used to do freely are no longer possible. However, it’s a positive change because it comes from recognition that’s been significant for me and my family. It was an unforgettable moment.”
Rodri, who has been sidelined since suffering an ACL injury against Arsenal earlier this season, is expected to return towards the end of the campam..
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Comments on the Ballon d’Or
At the Globe Soccer Awards, Ronaldo stated that Vinicius Jr. deserved to win the Ballon d’Or due to his success with Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. While he acknowledged Rodri’s achievements, he felt the Brazilian’s contributions were more noteworthy. Ronaldo said:
“I admire the careers of players like [Jude] Bellingham and Lamine [Yamal]. This new generation, including Vinicius, is doing fantastic work. In my opinion, Vinicius deserved the Ballon d’Or. It was unfair; I say it openly. They gave it to Rodri, who also deserved it, but Vinicius should have won because of his Champions League victory.”
Vinicius Jr. and Real Madrid boycotted last year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony after learning the Brazilian was not selected as the winner.
