The 2024 Ballon d’Or awards have once again honored the most outstanding players and clubs in world soccer. From unforgettable goals to unbeatable saves and incredible teamwork, this year’s winners have showcased excellence in every part of the game. Here’s a closer look at each award, celebrating the achievements and talents of these exceptional players and managers.
Men’s Ballon d’Or: Rodri
Rodri, the Spanish midfielder, won the prestigious Men’s Ballon d’Or for his remarkable performances throughout the season. Playing for Manchester City, Rodri was the heart of the team, known for his control over the midfield. His ability to read the game and make precise passes helped Manchester City win a historic treble. This includes the English Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League titles. Rodri also represented Spain in international competitions, showing his skill and consistency as one of the world’s best midfielders.
Women’s Ballon d’Or: Aitana Bonmati
Aitana Bonmati from Spain lifted the Women’s Ballon d’Or, an award recognizing her exceptional contributions to both her club and country. Playing as a midfielder for FC Barcelona Femeni, she was the driving force behind her team’s success. Aitana helped Barcelona win the league and the UEFA Women’s Champions League with her creativity and goal-scoring ability. Additionally, her role in Spain’s victory at the Women’s World Cup made her stand out even more. Her impressive playmaking and leadership on the field make her a deserving winner of this top honor.
Kopa Trophy: Lamine Yamal
The Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best young player, went to Lamine Yamal. This Barcelona youngster has been a rising star, showing amazing skill and confidence for his age. His quick dribbling, sharp passes, and creativity have made him one of the brightest talents to watch. Lamine’s talent and potential have excited fans, with many calling him the future of Spanish soccer. Despite his young age, he has already made a big impact at Barcelona, showing that he has a promising career ahead.
Yachine Trophy: Emiliano Martinez
Emiliano Martinez received the Yachine Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper of the year. Known for his incredible saves, especially during high-pressure moments, Martinez continued to be a wall in front of the goal for both Aston Villa and Argentina. After his stunning performance in the 2022 World Cup, he has remained a reliable goalkeeper with great reflexes and confidence. Martinez’s strong presence and skill have made him one of the top goalkeepers in the world, earning him this well-deserved award.
Gerd Müller Trophy: Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé
The Gerd Müller Trophy, which honors the top goal scorer, was shared this year between two soccer giants: Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé. Harry Kane, who recently moved to Bayern Munich, showed his scoring prowess with consistent performances in the Premier League before joining the German club. Known for his powerful shots and accuracy, Kane is one of the best strikers in the world.
Kylian Mbappé, playing for Paris Saint-Germain, continued to prove his place among the elite with his incredible speed, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability. Mbappé’s skills and consistency make him a dominant player, capable of scoring in any situation. Both players’ relentless efforts to score goals led them to share this prestigious award.
Prix Socrates: Jennifer Hermoso
Jennifer Hermoso was awarded the Prix Socrates, an award that honors humanitarian work and social responsibility. Jennifer is not only a talented player for Spain and Barcelona, but she also advocates for equality and fairness in sports. She uses her platform to promote women’s rights and inspire young girls in sports. Her dedication to both soccer and social causes has made her a role model, earning her this special award.
Men’s Club of the Year: Real Madrid
Real Madrid received the award for Men’s Club of the Year, highlighting their success and consistency in both La Liga and the Champions League. Known for their rich history and talented squad, Real Madrid continued to showcase skill, teamwork, and resilience. They competed fiercely in every competition, solidifying their place as one of the top clubs in the world. With an exceptional lineup and a winning mentality, Real Madrid remains a powerhouse in European soccer.
Women’s Club of the Year: FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona Femeni was named Women’s Club of the Year for their domination in women’s soccer. With outstanding performances in Spain and Europe, Barcelona’s women’s team won the domestic league and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Their style of play, combined with strong teamwork, made them nearly unstoppable. The club’s dedication to excellence and their influence on women’s soccer make them worthy recipients of this award.
Men’s Johan Cruyff Trophy: Carlo Ancelotti
Carlo Ancelotti, the legendary Italian manager of Real Madrid, was awarded the Men’s Johan Cruyff Trophy for his incredible coaching skills. Ancelotti led Real Madrid with calmness and strategy, bringing out the best in his players. Known for his tactical knowledge and ability to manage high-pressure games, Ancelotti has been a significant figure in Real Madrid’s success. His leadership and understanding of the game earned him this honor, recognizing his contributions to soccer.
Women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy: Emma Hayes
Emma Hayes, the manager of Chelsea FC Women, won the Women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy for her impact on women’s soccer. Hayes has led Chelsea to great heights, winning multiple titles and developing a strong, cohesive team. Her strategic approach and motivational leadership have turned Chelsea into one of the most competitive clubs in women’s soccer. Emma Hayes’ dedication to excellence and her role in promoting women’s soccer have earned her this well-deserved award.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or awards celebrated players and clubs that have excelled in various aspects of the game. From individual skills to teamwork and social impact, this year’s winners have shown that soccer is more than just a game. Their achievements on and off the field continue to inspire fans around the world, making them true icons in the sport.
