Vinicius Jr has set his sights on the Ballon d’Or after being crowned FIFA’s best player of the year on Tuesday.
The 24-year-old Real Madrid and Brazil forward won the prestigious award with 48 points, finishing ahead of Manchester City midfielder Rodry, who earned 43 points, and Madrid team-mate Jude Bellingham, who collected 37 points.
The award is determined by a combination of votes from national team coaches, captains, journalists and fans.
Vinicius’ win comes after missing out on the Ballon d’Or, which was awarded to Rodri earlier this year.
This decision led Real Madrid to boycott the ceremony in protest.
“Today I am writing to the child who has seen so many idols lift this trophy,” Vinicius shared on Instagram after receiving the award.
“His time has come. Or rather, my time has come. It’s time to say, yes, I’m the best player in the world and I’ve fought hard for it.
“They tried and tried to invalidate me, to diminish me. But they are not ready. No one is going to tell me who to fight for, how to behave.
“When I was at Sao Gonçalo, I didn’t care about the system. It almost swallowed me.
“I won for myself, for my family. With a lot of support along the way: Flamengo, Real Madrid, the Brazil National Team, hundreds of my teammates over the years, the people who accompany me every day in my routine, those who admire me, the best player in the world.”
Vinicius was recognized for his outstanding 2023-24 season, in which he played a key role in helping Real Madrid secure a LaLiga and Champions League double.
In October, Vinicius expressed his disappointment after being overlooked for the Ballon d’Or, stating: “I’ll do it 10 times if I have to. They are not ready.”
Vinicius’ achievement drew praise from many in the football world, including Neymar, who encouraged his compatriot to “keep flying” in an Instagram story celebrating his victory.
