Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior issued a powerful and defiant response after being named FIFA Men's Player of the Year on Tuesday night, following a remarkable 2024.
Vini was overlooked for the Ballon d'Or in October, losing out to Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri, resulting in a Small club-wide boycott of the ceremony by Real Madrid.
The Brazilian, who has endured rough treatment from defenders as well as vile racist abuse from opposition fans over the years, took it as one more hurdle to overcome on his journey to being labeled as the player the best in the world.
The FIFA ceremony was held in Qatar to coincide with the first FIFA Intercontinental Cup. Vini promised his future at Real Madrid during an acceptance speech on stageeffectively ending ongoing transfer speculation regarding the Saudi Pro League, before it was later posted on social media as well.
“Today I am writing to the child who has seen so many idols lift that trophy…his time has come. Or rather, my time has come,” Vini wrote. Instagram.
“Yes, I'm the best player in the world and I've fought hard for it. They've tried and tried to devalue me, to diminish me. But they're not prepared. Nobody's going to tell me who to play for. fight. how should I behave.
“When I was in Sao Goncalo, the system didn't take care of me. They almost swallowed me. I won for myself, for my family. With a lot of support along the way: Flamengo, Real MadridThe Brazilian national team, hundreds of my teammates over the years…the people who accompany me every day in my routine, those who admire me…THE BEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD.”