Ballon d'Or 2024: Rodri and Bonmati Triumph

In the 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony, Manchester City's Rodri won the prestigious award, marking the third time since 2007 that neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo claimed the honor. The decision faced controversy, particularly from Real Madrid fans upset over Vinicius Junior's exclusion. Argentina's Emiliano Martinez celebrated winning the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper for the second consecutive year. In women's football, Aitana Bonmati of Barcelona clinched her second consecutive Ballon d'Or, continuing Barcelona's dominance as they were also named Women's Club of the Year following a historic quadruple-winning season. Despite Bonmati's win, there was notable support for Caroline Graham Hansen, who many felt also deserved recognition for her exceptional performance.