Critique and Triumph: Ronaldo’s Bold Ballon d’Or Speech and Other Unforgettable Moments from the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards
By Malak Khaled
The Dubai Globe Soccer Awards 2024 celebrated the best of football, bringing together players, legends, and fans from around the world at a grand ceremony in Palm Jumeirah.
With over 100 million fan votes from more than 200 countries, the event broke records and crowned this year’s top talent.
The night saw Cristiano Ronaldo steal the spotlight with passionate speeches and bold critiques, adding drama to an evening of historic achievements. The 15th edition of the awards was truly a night to remember.
Cristiano Ronaldo: A Tribute to Greatness
Cristiano Ronaldo won two significant awards: Best Middle East Player and the Player Career Award, recognizing his unparalleled contribution to football and his historic 916-goal record.
Despite his first season in Saudi Arabia ending without a trophy, the 39-year-old Al Nassr striker expressed his determination to achieve more, promising fans, “I am not finished yet.”
Ronaldo’s reassuring speech that his football journey is far from over left the crowds buzzing. Another speech that took the crowd by storm was his criticism of the Ballon d’Or.
Ronaldo Calls Out Ballon d’Or
In an electrifying moment during his acceptance speech, Ronaldo passionately defended his Real Madrid protégé, Vinicius Junior, criticizing the Ballon d’Or for overlooking the Brazilian’s stellar season. “Vinicius deserved to win the Golden Ball. It wasn’t fair,” Ronaldo declared, emphasizing the winger’s decisive performances.
Ronaldo also praised the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards for recognizing Vinicius Junior’s great achievements. “I want to thank the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai because they do an honest award (gala).” Ronaldo cemented the event’s credibility as a platform that recognizes true talent.
Vinicius Junior: A Historic Double Win
Vinicius Junior capped off his best season yet with the Best Men’s Player and Best Forward awards. The 23-year-old Brazilian enjoyed a stellar 2023-24 campaign, scoring 24 goals and providing nine assists in 39 matches for Real Madrid.
His heroics in the UEFA Champions League included breaking Lionel Messi’s record as the youngest player to score in multiple finals, leading Real Madrid to their 15th European title.
Jude Bellingham’s Remarkable Year
Jude Bellingham was another standout winner, taking home the Best Midfielder and the Maradona Award. The 21-year-old shone in his first season with Real Madrid.
He helped the team secure the La Liga title, their maiden Champions League title, and was named La Liga title player of the year. He was also named Man of the Match for the 2024 UEFA Super Cup, cementing his place as one of football’s brightest stars.
Aitana Bonmatí: Best Women’s Player
Aitana Bonmatí’s exceptional performance throughout the year earned her the Best Women’s Player award. Her leadership on the pitch and contributions to FC Barcelona’s success solidify her status as one of the game’s greatest talents.
Club Achievements in the Spotlight
Real Madrid claimed the title of Best Men’s Club, celebrating a season filled with remarkable victories and consistent excellence. Meanwhile, FC Barcelona was named Best Women’s Club, further showcasing their dominance in the women’s game. Al Ain FC, crowned Best Middle East Club, represented the region with pride, highlighting the growing influence of Middle Eastern football.
Record-Breaking Fan Participation
This year’s edition saw unprecedented engagement, with over 100 million votes cast by fans worldwide, surpassing the previous record of 70 million. The process, which combines fan votes with jury decisions, ensured transparency and highlighted the passion of football lovers across the globe.
The Dubai Globe Soccer Awards 2024 was more than an awards ceremony; it was a celebration of football’s past, present, and future. With record-breaking winners like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham, the event showcased the sport’s brightest stars and its ability to unite millions of fans worldwide. As the curtains closed on this historic edition, Dubai once again proved its role as a global stage for the beautiful game.
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