Vinicius Jr was reportedly told he would win 2024 Ballon d’Or

Vinicius Jr reportedly entered the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony believing the award was already his, only to see the prize go to Rodri. The Real Madrid forward had apparently been told in advance that he would win and had prepared a place for the trophy at his home.

Rafa Hermoso, the brother of Spain forward Jennifer Hermoso, described a dinner at Vinicius’ house before the Paris ceremony. He said the Brazilian had invited guests to discuss an important matter and that a plan had been considered for Jennifer to hand him the Ballon d’Or. Vinicius would then have presented her with an award for her social commitment.

The expected presentation did not happen. Rodri received the Ballon d’Or, while Real Madrid’s delegation stayed away from the ceremony. Jennifer Hermoso did collect the Socrates Prize, which recognised her work against inequality and in support of women’s football.

Vinicius’ confidence was rooted in a major 2024 campaign. He helped Real Madrid win La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, the Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup, before the club later added the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. He finished the year with 24 goals and 11 assists in 39 matches, including a goal in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund and a hat-trick against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.