Photo Credit:Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images
Spanish soccer stars took center stage at the Ballon d’Or awards, with Rodri and Aitana Bonmatí winning prestigious honors. Rodri, Manchester City and Spain midfielder, claimed his first Ballon d’Or for an exceptional 2024 season, while Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí won her second consecutive Ballon d’Or Féminin, marking a historic night for Spanish talent in both men’s and women’s soccer.
Rodri’s stellar year contributed significantly to Manchester City’s record fourth consecutive Premier League title and Spain’s victory at Euro 2024. After receiving the award, Rodri reflected on his journey, stating, “After all the hard work, the light has risen now.” Rodri credited his improvement in the attacking third, noting that his increased involvement in goals and assists has elevated his game.
On the women’s side, Bonmatí continued her winning streak. Her contributions were instrumental in leading Barcelona Femení to an unprecedented quadruple this season, including wins in Liga F, the Champions League, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Copa de la Reina. Bonmatí acknowledged her teammates, saying her success was possible only because of “the amazing players that I play with every day.”
Hollywood actress Natalie Portman presented Bonmatí with the award, calling her an “inspiration” for soccer fans everywhere. The ceremony also celebrated teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who received the Kopa Trophy for the best under-21 player. Yamal recently made history as the youngest goalscorer in El Clásico, further underscoring his remarkable potential as he rises in the ranks of international soccer.
On the women’s side, Bonmatí continued her winning streak. Her contributions were instrumental in leading Barcelona Femení to an unprecedented quadruple this season, including wins in Liga F, the Champions League, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Copa de la Reina. Bonmatí acknowledged her teammates, saying her success was possible only because of “the amazing players that I play with every day.”
Hollywood actress Natalie Portman presented Bonmatí with the award, calling her an “inspiration” for soccer fans everywhere. The ceremony also celebrated teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who received the Kopa Trophy for the best under-21 player. Yamal recently made history as the youngest goalscorer in El Clásico, further underscoring his remarkable potential as he rises in the ranks of international soccer.
