Rodri ends 64-year wait with Ballon d'Or triumph as he delivers emotional victory speech

Rodri became the first Spaniard to win the coveted Ballon d'Or in 64 years after a sensational season with Manchester City.

Amid stiff competition from talents such as Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham, the Spanish midfielder triumphed on a night marred by controversy, with Real Madrid boycotting the ceremony after discovering their Brazilian star had been beaten by Rodri.

Man Coty's star man played a pivotal role in his side's remarkable success in winning the Premier League title for an unprecedented fourth consecutive season. Under the leadership of Pep Guardiola, the club also reached the FA Cup final.

The 28-year-old continued his winning streak throughout the summer, leading Spain to a victorious campaign at Euro 2024. Rodri's outstanding performances earned him the Player of the Tournament award.

In his celebratory speech, Rodri said: “Good evening everyone, I have so many people to thank. First of all France Football and UEFA for giving me this award. To all those who voted for me . I would like to thank the most important person in the world, my girlfriend Laura, without her, things would not have been the same. My family of course, for the values ​​they instilled in me and taught me. to become the man I am.

“I don't want to forget my teammates. Thank you Manchester City, you are so special, I know I wouldn't be here without you. For me it's the best club in the world. I would like to thank the national team and Luis (de la Fuente) for trusting me for so long. My colleagues with whom I won the Euro, Carvajal, he should have been here with me, I know you will win this award soon. .

“It's not just a victory for me, but for Spanish football. So many players who didn't win the award but deserved it, it's a victory for Spanish football.”

After the Euro, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente backed Rodri for the award, saying: “Rodri must be the Ballon d'Or. Give it to him, please. It's simply the best player in the world.

Rodri achieved what many of his fellow Spaniards could not. Andres Iniesta, considered the best Spanish player of his generation, finished second to Lionel Messi in 2010, while Xavi finished third from 2009 to 2011.

The last Spanish player to win this award was Luis Suarez for Barcelona in 1960.

Currently, the Manchester City star is out of action and is expected to miss the rest of the season after undergoing ACL surgery. Vinicius Jr took second place, surpassing his Real Madrid teammate Bellingham.

The England starlet enjoyed an impressive first year in Spain and played a key role in England's journey to the Euro 2024 final, scoring a vital goal against Slovakia in the last 16.