Vinicius Junior wins FIFA ‘The Best Award’ – Boycotted Ballon d’Or in October

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World Footballer 

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Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has been voted the best footballer in the world at a FIFA event in Doha. The Brazilian succeeds Lionel Messi, who was also nominated for the event. He also beat out European Championship winner Rodri from Manchester City, who won the Ballon d’Or, which led to Vinicius and Real Madrid boycotting that event. 

“It feels impossible to now stand on this stage,” Vinicius Junior said. “I am from a small village, and I escaped poverty and crime. Now I am here.” The Brazilian received 48 points to beat out Rodri (43) and his teammate Jude Bellingham (37). FIFA organized the event on the eve of the Intercontinental Cup final between Real Madrid and Pachuca. Carlo Ancelotti won the award for the best head coach at the event ‘The Best.’ Xabi Alonso from Bayer Leverkusen finished second. 

In October, Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior opted to boycott the Ballon d’Or award. Both failed to participate in the ceremony held at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris after it was leaked that Rodri had won the award. That decision caused significant criticism towards Real and Vinicius. 

Some saw Vinicius as the favorite to win the trophy. After all, he had won the championship and Champions League with Real Madrid. But the forward, who has faced racism in Spain, is also seen critically. His tendency for theatrics is not well received by many, as was underlined by his absence from the Ballon d’Or award. The FIFA ‘The Best’ award regulations differ from the Ballon d’Or, which journalists decide. At the FIFA award the national team coaches, captains, journalists, and fans are part of the vote.