Cristiano Ronaldo did not mince his words at the Globe Soccer Awards. After criticising Ligue 1, he attacked the decision to award the Ballon d’Or 2024 to Rodri, saying that Vinicius Jr would have been a more deserving choice.

Cristiano Ronaldo left his mark on the Globe Soccer Awards on Friday, not only with his award for best player in the Middle East, but also with his hard-hitting statements. After criticising Ligue 1, the Al-Nassr star openly questioned the awarding of the 2024 Ballon d’Or to Manchester City midfielder Rodri.

In a speech that mixed admiration for young players with criticism of the ceremony’s choices, Ronaldo made no secret of his disagreement. ‘Vini should have won the Ballon d’Or. I don’t think it was fair and I say that here in front of everyone. They gave it to Rodri, who also deserved it, but I think Vinicius should have won it,’ he began.

According to CR7, Vinicius Jr, who has had an exceptional season with Real Madrid, deserved the trophy after scoring in the Champions League final and leading his team to the summit of Europe. Ronaldo also criticised the way ceremonies such as the Ballon d’Or are run, clearly expressing his preference for the Globe Soccer Awards. ‘These galas always do the same thing. That’s why I like the Globe Soccer Awards, they should continue to hold this honest gala,’ added the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Ronaldo compares himself to Lamine Yamal and Vinicius Jr

Despite Ronaldo’s criticisms, Rodri’s coronation is not without meaning. The Spanish midfielder was the driving force behind Manchester City, who won the Premier League and the Euro with Spain. But Cristiano Ronaldo is not satisfied with just winning the Ballon d’Or. The Portuguese has not hesitated to compare himself to the young stars of world football.

‘I like to measure myself against young players. It motivates me. I like to be compared to them, their speed, their shooting, even their form. They’re not in better shape than me… that’s a joke. Bellingham, Lamine, Vinicius… they’re fantastic,’ he continued.