The highly anticipated Ballon d'Or awards ceremony took place on Monday at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, honouring the outstanding achievements of football's top talents.The prestigious event recognized exceptional performances in various categories, celebrating the sport's most skilled players, coaches, and clubs in the year under review.Rodrigo Cascante (Rodri) Claims Top HonorManchester City's midfielder, Rodri, was crowned the Best Men's Player of the Year, edging out stiff competition from Real Madrid trio Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal.The midfield sensation was impressive for both club and country as Manchester City secured their fourth consecutive Premier League title as he helped Spain to clinch their fourth European Cup(Euros).The Spaniard's stats and achievements helped him to lift the coveted Ballon d'Or ahead of Madrid's Vinicius Jnr who was heavily tipped to win the award to become the first Brazilian player to do so since Kaka in 2007.Aitana Bonmati Shines BrightBarcelona's Aitana Bonmati took home the Ballon d'Or Feminin for the second consecutive time, solidifying her position as one of the world's top female players.Her remarkable skill and dedication were crucial in Barcelona Feminin's success - winning the quadruple - and earning her the esteemed award.Lamine Yamal's Kopa Trophy TriumphLamine Yamal, the talented young player, received the Kopa Trophy, recognizing his outstanding potential and achievements.Yamal played a pivotal role in Spain's golden summer where they won the Euros for the first time since 2012.At 17 years old, Lamine Yamal became the youngest player to ever win the Kopa Trophy and the youngest player to come 8th in the Ballon d'Or rankings, adding another layer to his impressive records at his age.This award serves as a testament to his bright future in football.Coaching ExcellenceCarlo Ancelotti, the seasoned manager, was named Men's Coach of the Year after winning the UEFA Champions League and La Liga with Real Madrid, while Emma Hayes claimed the Women's Coach of the Year award after her success with the USA women's national team in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Their tactical prowess and leadership skills have significantly impacted their respective teams.Goalkeeping GreatnessEmiliano Martinez, the exceptional goalkeeper, secured the Yashin Trophy for the second consecutive time, highlighting his impressive saves and contributions to his team.The Aston Villa shot-stopper, who won the 2024 Copa America, was awarded the best goalkeeper award ahead of Unai Simon, Mike Maignan, Andriy Lunin and Gianluigi Donnarumma.Club SuccessReal Madrid was named Men's Club of the Year after their triumph in Europe and domestically, where they won the Champions League for a record 15 times.
Additionally, they won their 35th La Liga title, while Barcelona took home the Women's Club of the Year award after a historic campaign last season, where they won the quadruple for the first time ( Women's Champions League, Copa de la Reina, Spanish Super Copa and La Liga F).These prestigious clubs have consistently demonstrated excellence in football.Gerd Muller TrophyHarry Kane and Kylian Mbappe shared the Gerd Muller Trophy, acknowledging their remarkable goal-scoring abilities.Mbappe and Harry Kane shared the award with 52 goals apiece after showcasing their goal scoring prowess with both club and country.Full List of Winners