How Rodri Won the 2024 Ballon d’Or Against All Odds
You could feel the electricity in Paris the moment Rodri’s name was announced. On Monday, October 28, 2024, at the Théâtre du Châtelet, the Manchester City and Spain midfielder did something no one saw coming: he scooped up football’s biggest individual prize, the Men’s Ballon d’Or. It wasn’t just another fancy award ceremony; it felt like a celebration of grit, guts, and a little bit of good fortune riding shotgun. For Rodri, it’s a career high—one that sends Spanish fans into full-throated cheers.
A Season For The Ages
Think back to last year: City cruising to a fourth straight Premier League title, and there was Rodri at the heart of it, pulling strings, breaking up attacks, and yes—slamming in a goal or two when everyone needed it most. Nine straight wins to end the season? He was everywhere on the pitch. And on the international stage? Euro 2024 was his playground. Named Player of the Tournament as Spain lifted a record fourth crown, he made midfield look like an art form.
Breaking The Mold
Remember Lothar Matthäus back in 1990? Yeah, he was the last defensive mid to win this thing. So to see Rodri follow in those footsteps after more than three decades—it’s wild. His passing is downright metronomic; he can nick the ball back like a cat pouncing on prey; and every so often he shows up with a thunderbolt into the net. Pep Guardiola didn’t mince words when he called him “the best midfielder in the world.” You don’t hype someone like that unless they really are.
The Big Surprise
Most players had their money on Vinícius Jr. or Jude Bellingham. After all, Vinícius led Real Madrid to both La Liga glory and Champions League glory, and Madrid even boycotted the ceremony—bold move, right? Yet there was Rodri, cool as you like, lifting football’s ultimate individual honour. Cue the takes, the memes, the disbelief. Sometimes, it pays to fly under the radar.
Straight From The Heart
Rodri didn’t go full star mode on stage. No, he dedicated the trophy to Spanish football—especially those hard-working midfielders who never get their due. He gave shout-outs to family, teammates, fans. And then, with a grin, he said, “I’m just a regular guy—values, studies, working hard. Didn’t follow any stereotypes, and here we are.” You could almost hear the collective nod across the stands.
Why It Matters For Spain
Spain’s been on fire lately—women’s Ballon d’Or winners streaking four in a row, and now Rodri adds the men’s prize to the pile. It’s a reminder that midfielders aren’t just background actors; they’re the engine room, the choreographers of every attack and shield. Suddenly, a position long overlooked is center stage—and young kids in Spain might just start dreaming of being the next Rodri.
From Kid To King
Twenty years ago, a boy kicking a ball in Madrid wouldn’t have imagined this moment. Yet here he stands: proof that hard work, a bit of flair, and a truckload of resilience can get you to the top—even from the unsung parts of the pitch. Defensive midfielders, rejoice.
What’s Next?
Trophy cabinet looking a little crowded? No rest for the wicked—Rodri’s already eyeing Champions League glory with City and plotting Spain’s conquest at the 2026 World Cup. Rumour has it Pep might push him further upfield, letting him ghost into the box more often. Imagine a Rodri who not only stops attacks but also racks up assists and goals like he’s done with tackles and interceptions. Box-to-box, indeed.
A Final Thought
There’s something deeply human about this story: a relatively quiet guy, doing the right things every day, then suddenly—boom—global recognition. It’s a reminder that in football, as in life, the uncelebrated roles can still lead you into the spotlight. And when they do, it’s all the more special. Here’s to Rodri—proof that sometimes, the best stories come from the depths of midfield.
