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Rodri’s Ballon d’Or: A Just Recognition for an Unsung Hero in Football

Real Madrid expressed outrage at Vinícius Júnior’s exclusion from the Ballon d'Or, but the crowning of Spain's midfielder Rodri signals a meaningful shift in perspective.

When Rodrigo Hernández was a university student in Castellón, he considered himself “the lame one who never did anything.” He occasionally attended dinners or stopped by the bar, but rarely participated in the nightlife. His classmates were oblivious to his footballing talent until they witnessed him playing for Villarreal. Now, at 28, he has made history as the first Spanish man to win the Ballon d’Or since Luis Suárez did so 64 years ago.

On a day filled with shouts of injustice, Rodri’s win represents a form of justice—not just for him, but for a type of player and the concept of collectivism in football. His recognition also serves as a win for Spanish football, despite the lack of enthusiastic celebration at home. Real Madrid’s refusal to attend the ceremony upon learning that Vinícius would not be the winner cast a shadow over what should have been a national triumph.

At the Théâtre du Châtelet, even as George Weah began to announce the winner, shouts of “Vinícius!” filled the air. The atmosphere felt grim, as if Rodri had committed an offense rather than excelled on the pitch. However, he rose above the negativity, delivering a speech that was as generous and clear as his style of play. While Vinícius had a strong case, Rodri's victory was equally deserved.

Few players influence a team's dynamics as profoundly as Rodri. He views his role as one of bringing "light" to his team, which is why Manchester City, the Premier League champions he led to a Champions League title, operates so effectively. Similarly, he played a crucial part in Spain's triumph at Euro 2024, tipping the scales in his favor. Pep Guardiola hailed him as “the best midfielder in the world, by far,” while Luis de la Fuente called him “the perfect computer,” leading one of the finest teams in European history.

Despite the flawed nature of the voting process, enough voters recognized Rodri’s impact. As he made his way to the stage with assistance from Rúben Dias, the emotion on his face was palpable. “I never thought this day would happen,” he reflected, marking the anniversary of meeting his partner, Laura, in university eight years prior.

Rodri emphasized that this honor is not solely for him, but for Spanish football, repeatedly referring to “my country.” He acknowledged other players who might have deserved the accolade, including legends like Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, Iker Casillas, and Sergio Busquets, as well as Dani Carvajal, who suffered a similar injury. Rodri’s connection to younger talent, like Barcelona's 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, underscores his role as a mentor.

He has always embraced the responsibility of leadership as a midfielder, recognizing the vital role it plays in a team's success. Rodri, a natural leader, almost seemed like the de facto coach during the tournament. He reflected on how, as a child, he easily understood the game and the dynamics that made teams successful. His work ethic is evident in stories from teammates like Ilkay Gündogan, who noted Rodri’s dedication to learning and perfecting his craft.

Rodri’s commitment to team success sometimes goes unnoticed, but his humble demeanor and intelligence have elevated him in the eyes of voters. His Ballon d'Or win signifies a shift in football culture, emphasizing that greatness isn't solely defined by goals or flashy plays. This recognition serves as justice not only for Rodri but also for the countless undervalued players who contribute to the sport’s essence. “Being here, I give visibility to the midfielder: overshadowed but coming into the light today,” Rodri stated.

Before the Euros, Álvaro Morata noted that Rodri might have already won the award had he been more marketable. While Rodri remains focused on the game rather than self-promotion, he acknowledged the importance of recognition. “If one day someone wants to reward the work, that’s welcome,” he said. On that memorable night in Paris, they did.