Rodrygo Upset That He Wasn’t Nominated For 2024 Ballon d’Or

Real Madrid forward, Rodrygo has expressed his disappointment at not making the 30-man shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

Despite an impressive season with 17 goals and nine assists in 51 appearances for the Spanish club, Rodrygo was deemed not good enough for a 2024 Ballon d’Or nomination.

The 23-year-old Brazilian winger, acknowledging the worthiness of the selected players, voiced his belief that he deserved a place among the nominees.

“I was upset, I think I deserved it,” Rodrygo told ESPN.

“I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, I think they deserved it also. But I think I had a place in the 30.”

The nominees were chosen by France Football’s editorial team in collaboration with Ballon d’Or ambassador, Didier Drogba and selected members of the media. The winner will be revealed at a ceremony in Paris on 28th October.

Rodrygo, who contributed to Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League victories, was disappointed at being overlooked, citing his versatility and team-oriented approach as factors that may have impacted his nomination.

“Often, I’m just filling spaces,” he said. “Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in. Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo. Is someone missing as number nine? Rodrygo. That’s it.

“It may get in my way a little, but I’m a team player.”