The Brazilian forward shines after a historic year for Real Madrid and himself.
In a glittering evening in Doha, Qatar, Vinicius Junior was awarded the FIFA Men’s Player of the Year, capping off a phenomenal year of achievements for the Real Madrid star. The 24-year-old forward was instrumental in securing UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles for the Spanish giants in 2024, scoring an impressive 32 goals across all competitions during the calendar year.
One of Vinicius’ standout performances came in the Champions League final, where he netted a decisive goal in Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium. The win marked Real Madrid’s record-extending 15th European title, further solidifying their dominance on the continent. Earlier in the year, Vinicius delivered a hat-trick during Madrid’s 4-1 Spanish Super Cup final triumph against rivals Barcelona.
Vindication After Ballon d’Or Snub
The award comes just two months after Vinicius controversially missed out on the Ballon d’Or, which went to Manchester City midfielder Rodri. The decision sparked outrage in Madrid, with the club and key players, including Jude Bellingham and Carlo Ancelotti, boycotting the Paris ceremony. However, in a more amicable setting in Doha, Vinicius was present to accept his trophy, as Real Madrid prepared for their Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca.
Upon receiving the honor, Vinicius expressed gratitude, acknowledging the team and fans who supported his journey. The Brazilian remains a crucial figure in Madrid’s attacking lineup and continues to impress with his technical ability, pace, and knack for scoring in critical moments.
Recognition for the World’s Best
The awards night celebrated excellence across the footballing spectrum. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti was named FIFA Men’s Coach of the Year for leading the club to their historic Champions League triumph. In the team category, The Best FIFA Team of the Year included five Premier League players alongside five Real Madrid stars and one Barcelona prodigy.
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reclaimed the FIFA Best Goalkeeper award after another stellar season, while Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho secured the Puskas Award for his stunning overhead kick against Everton in 2023. Garnacho became only the second United player to win the honor, joining Cristiano Ronaldo, who won in 2009.
Women’s Football Takes Center Stage
The ceremony also spotlighted achievements in women’s football, with Aitana Bonmatí winning her second consecutive FIFA Women’s Player of the Year award. The Barcelona star dominated in 2024, helping her team clinch a fifth straight Liga F title, the UEFA Women’s Champions League, and more. Emma Hayes, now leading the U.S. national team, was named FIFA Women’s Coach of the Year after steering Chelsea to their fifth successive Women’s Super League title and leading Team USA to Olympic gold.
Brazilian icon Marta was honored with the newly inaugurated ‘Marta Award’ for the best women’s goal of the year, further cementing her legacy as one of the greatest players in history.
With stars like Vinicius Junior and Aitana Bonmatí leading the charge, football continues to captivate audiences globally. For Real Madrid, the spotlight now turns to the Intercontinental Cup, where they will aim to build on their remarkable year. Meanwhile, Vinicius’ triumph in Doha solidifies his place among football’s elite and sets the stage for even greater expectations in 2025.
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