2024 Ballon d’Or: Nothing but pure saltiness from Real Madrid

In the world of football, few events are as closely followed or as fiercely debated as the Ballon d’Or. And this year was no exception. When Manchester City’s Rodri took home the prestigious title, edging out Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr, the backlash from Madrid was immediate and intense.

Not only did the club cancel their attendance at the event, but they also issued a scathing statement, calling out the decision as “disrespectful.” Vinicius’s teammate Eduardo Camavinga joined in, blaming “football politics,” while angry fans cried “robbery.”

But here’s the thing: this reaction wasn’t just disappointment—it was entitlement, plain and simple.

Real Madrid’s response underscores a troubling sense of ownership over football’s top individual awards, as if the Ballon d’Or is somehow theirs to distribute. And this wasn’t a quiet grievance aired behind closed doors; Madrid went public with their fury, casting a shadow over what was supposed to be Rodri’s moment.

Take it from former Argentina striker Sergio Aguero, who saw right through Madrid’s reaction.

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In a bold move, he called out Madrid’s behavior for what it was: sour grapes.

“Well deserved. Rodri is the best player in the world. Football is for everyone, not just Real Madrid,” Aguero said, hitting the nail on the head.

He reminded us of something fundamental—that football and its accolades don’t belong to a single club or fanbase.

Madrid’s reaction to Rodri’s win could have been restrained and respectful, showing a nod to his contribution to Manchester City’s historic season.

Instead, they dismissed his achievement as a product of “football politics,” painting a picture of Rodri’s win as unjust and undeserved.

This comes across as tone-deaf, given the Spanish midfielder’s undeniable impact on City’s success last season. It’s as if Madrid has forgotten that the Ballon d’Or isn’t meant to reward their feelings; it’s meant to reward the best performance.

Beyond the pettiness, Madrid’s behavior risks alienating other football communities by giving the impression that they see themselves as above the sport’s collective appreciation for talent.

When one of the most decorated clubs in the world throws a tantrum for not getting their way, it sends the message that they value individual achievement only when it aligns with their brand.

The Ballon d’Or, however, isn’t a trophy that panders to any one club’s expectations.

Real Madrid’s response to Vinicius Jr. missing out on the Ballon d’Or might seem like a show of loyalty to their player, but it ultimately comes off as bitterness and entitlement.

In the end, perhaps they could take a page from Aguero’s book and learn that celebrating football means celebrating the achievements of players everywhere—not just those wearing white.