Vinicius Jnr. named FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year

Brazil and Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr has won the men’s player of the year at the FIFA Best Awards. The 24-year-old received the prestigious award in Doha, Qatar, capping off an incredible year that saw him play a crucial role in Real Madrid’s Champions League and La Liga-winning campaign.

Vinicius Jr’s impressive performance in the 2023-24 season earned him 24 goals and 11 assists. His outstanding contributions to Real Madrid’s success did not go unnoticed, as he was recognized as the best men’s player of the year. This award marks Vinicius Jr’s first FIFA Best prize, following in the footsteps of previous winners Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski.

The FIFA Best Awards ceremony also saw Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati named the women’s Player of the Year for the second consecutive year, while youngster Lamine Yamal won the Young Player of the Year.

The awards, which recognize outstanding performances in football from August 2023 to August 2024, were decided by a mix of public vote, journalists, and national team captains and managers.

Vinicius Jr’s win comes after a controversy surrounding the Ballon d’Or ceremony, which he and his club, Real Madrid, boycotted in October. The boycott was a response to Vinicius Jr missing out on the award to Manchester City’s Rodri. However, the FIFA Best Award has provided a happier ending to the season for Vinicius Jr.

The award ceremony took place in Doha, Qatar, where Real Madrid is set to face Mexican side Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final on Wednesday. Vinicius Jr’s recognition as the best men’s player of the year is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.

Controversially, his Real Madrid team made at French forward Kylian Mbappé missed out on the FIFA Best Eleven lineup. However, there was space for Antonio Rudiger, Toni Kroos, Jude Bellingham, Arsenal’s William Saliba, Emi Martinez in goal, Dani Carvajal, Ruben Dias, Rodri, Haaland and Lamine Yamal.