Ballon d’Or: Remember who were the 10 best players in the world in 2024
Manchester City’s Rodri was crowned the world’s best footballer in 2024, but the full Ballon d’Or ranking includes several standout names from Real Madrid, Barcelona, and beyond.
The 2024 edition of the Ballon d’Or brought with it no shortage of debate. Awarded by France Football magazine, the top honor went to Rodri, Manchester City’s Spanish midfielder, sparking mixed reactions from fans and pundits alike.
The controversy centered around Vinícius Júnior, who finished second in the voting despite his stellar campaign with Real Madrid. The decision led to some mockery from rival fans including Rodri himself reportedly making light of the outcome although Vinícius would later bounce back by winning FIFA’s The Best award in early 2025.
Top 10 Ballon d’Or Rankings in 2024
While most fans remember the duel between Rodri and Vini Jr., fewer recall the full list of elite performers who made the top 10. Here’s a look back at how the votes stacked up for the 2024 Ballon d’Or:
- Rodri – Manchester City / Spain
- Vinícius Júnior – Real Madrid / Brazil
- Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid / England
- Dani Carvajal – Real Madrid / Spain
- Erling Haaland – Manchester City / Norway
- Kylian Mbappé – PSG & Real Madrid / France
- Lautaro Martínez – Inter Milan / Argentina
- Lamine Yamal – Barcelona / Spain
- Toni Kroos – Real Madrid / Germany
- Harry Kane – Bayern Munich / England
Notably, the award is based on performances during the 2023/24 European season, which explains the inclusion of Toni Kroos, who retired from professional football in 2024 after an illustrious career.
When and Where Is the 2025 Ballon d’Or Ceremony?
The next Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for September 22, 2025, and will once again be held at the prestigious Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France. Fans around the world will be watching closely to see if Rodri can defend his title or if a new name will rise to the top of world football.
