By McGeorge Mbare
Brazil’s Vinicius Jr has finally claimed a prestigious global accolade after scooping the Best FIFA Men’s player while Spain’s Aitana Bonmati was named the Best FIFA Women’s player of the year at the FIFA Best Awards 2024 in Doha, Qatar.
Following his loss to Manchester city’s Rodri for the Ballon d’Or back in October, Vinicius showcased his determination and resilience, as he bested Rodri by five points and being named‘s player of the year. Meanwhile ,Barcelona ‘s Aitana continued her extraordinary run securing back to back award for the best women’s player.
Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazario took his social media highlighting the significance of the award to the Brazilian forward and the country at large. It has been almost 16 years since Ricardo Kaka won the award in 2007, fast forward 2024, it’s Vinicius who has brought back the Brazilian feel of winning.
“And after speaking of regaining respect for Brazilian football, look at him .Maximum respect for Vinicius .16 years have passed since the trophy of the best player in the world last came to Brazil. Now deservedly in Vini’s hands ,it means ,it means much more than his numbers in the 2023/2024 season. But your power goes beyond the field ,” said the Brazilian legend Ronaldo.
Nazario also highlighted Vinicius Jr’s hard work as symbol of resistance and resilience by winning the award even after facing racism obstacles during the past season.
“They tried to erase you my friend and you put on a dance, that the the best player in the world is black and Brazilian, “Ronaldo wrote.
All in all, this has been a momentous occasion for football, with Spain based superstars Vinicius and Bonmati honoured for their hard work for the entire 2024.