Real Madrid and Brazil winger Vinicius Jr has been crowned the men’s player of the year at the FIFA Best Awards.
Ripples Nigeria had reported how the 24-year-old, along with his club, skipped the recent Ballon d’Or ceremony after losing out to Manchester City’s Rodri.
But Vinicius, who was instrumental in Real Madrid’s triumphant 2023-24 season, secured this honor in Doha.
Vinicius helped Real Madrid win both the Champions League and La Liga by scoring 24 goals and delivering 11 assists.
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Earlier in the ceremony, Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati claimed the women’s player of the year award for the second consecutive time.
This marks Vinicius’ first time winning the FIFA Best award, providing a brighter conclusion to the season following his earlier Ballon d’Or absence.
Reflecting on his journey, Vinicius said, “It seemed impossible when I played barefoot in the streets of Sao Goncalo, and now I’m here.”
The Ballon d’Or and Fifa Best Awards are the two most prestigious in football.