Ballon d’Or 2024: Popularity Contest Exemplified
In the 2024 calendar year, Vinicius Júnior’s impact at Real Madrid has been substantial, with crucial goals and assists contributing to the team’s success in La Liga and Champions League campaigns. However, his performances for Brazil have not been as consistently impressive, and he has yet to deliver standout international displays to match his club's achievements. Nonetheless, playing for a high-profile club like Real Madrid has significantly bolstered his Ballon d'Or case, with the PR and visibility associated with Los Blancos amplifying his presence on the global stage. This visibility has kept Vinicius at the forefront of the conversation, underscoring how critical Real Madrid’s platform can be for individual accolades.
Rodri’s 2024 has been exceptional, building on Manchester City’s treble success by maintaining top-level performances in the Premier League and Champions League. Not only did he anchor City’s midfield with remarkable consistency, but he also took on an instrumental role in Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, where he was named Player of the Tournament. His ability to dictate play and contribute to crucial goals has made him one of the year’s standout midfielders. This has further reinforced his reputation as a key player in both club and international competitions.
For Jude Bellingham, 2024 has been a breakout year, as he transitioned seamlessly into Real Madrid, quickly becoming their main attacking force. His knack for scoring goals in decisive moments, especially in La Liga, has made him a fan favorite and a regular match-winner. Internationally, Bellingham was a central figure in England’s Euro 2024 campaign, providing clutch performances that underscored his maturity and skill at just 21 years old. His impact at both club and country levels has been profound, establishing him as one of the brightest young talents in the world.
Kylian Mbappé continued to shine with PSG in 2024, delivering impressive scoring stats and showcasing his blistering speed and technical skill. Although PSG fell short in the Champions League, Mbappé remained their top performer, consistently finding the back of the net and contributing to their domestic success. However, his international performance at Euro 2024 with France was less impactful than expected. This could potentially hinder his chances for the Ballon d'Or this year.
Harry Kane enjoyed a productive 2024 after his move to Bayern Munich, quickly adapting to the Bundesliga and becoming its top scorer. His goal-scoring ability has remained sharp, and his leadership on the pitch has helped Bayern maintain their competitive edge domestically. Although he did not win major trophies this year, Kane’s personal achievements stand out. They showcase his adaptability and continued excellence as a forward.
