Vinicius Junior was aiming for the Ballon d’Or after being named FIFA’s best player of the year on Tuesday.
The 24-year-old Real Madrid and Brazil striker took the prestigious award with 48 points, finishing ahead of Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who scored 43 points, and his Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham, who scored 37 points.
The award is determined by a combination of votes from national team coaches, captains, journalists and fans.
Vinicius’ victory follows on from missing out on the Ballon d’Or, which was awarded to Rodri earlier this year.
This decision caused Real Madrid to boycott the ceremony in protest.
“Today I write to the child who saw so many idols lift this trophy,” Vinícius shared on Instagram after receiving the award.
“His time has come. Or rather, my time has come. It’s time to say: Yes, I am the best player in the world and I fought hard for it.
“They tried and tried to devalue me, to belittle me. But they are not ready yet. Nobody will tell me who I should fight for, how I should behave.
“When I was in Sao Gonçalo, the system didn’t take care of me. It almost swallowed me.
“I won for myself, for my family. With a lot of support along the way: Flamengo, Real Madrid, the Brazilian national team, my hundreds of teammates over the years, the people who accompany me every day in my everyday life, those who admire me, the best player in the world. “
Vinicius was recognized for his exceptional 2023-24 season, in which he played a key role in helping Real Madrid secure the LaLiga and Champions League double.
In October, Vinicius expressed his frustration at being left out of the Ballon d’Or, stating: “If I have to, I’ll do it ten times. They’re not ready.”
Vinicius’ performance was praised by many in the football world, including Neymar, who encouraged his compatriot to “keep flying” in an Instagram story celebrating his win.
