The football world was treated to a memorable ceremony this week as Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior won the Player of the Year award at The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024. The win marked a moment of redemption for the young Brazilian, who was disappointed not to win the Ballon d’Or last October, losing out to Manchester City midfielder Rodri. Vinicius had expressed his frustration by boycotting the ceremony in Paris, but his FIFA Awards triumph helped calm things down.
FC Barcelona player Aitana Bonmati continued her dominance in the women’s game by winning the Women’s Player of the Year award. The accolade adds to a long list of trophies for Bonmati, who also won the Ballon d’Or for the second year running. Her success with Barça, including the Spanish La Liga, the Spanish Cup and the Champions League, underscores her brilliant season.
On the coaching front, Carlo Ancelotti was awarded the Best Men’s Coach award for his performance with Real Madrid. Ancelotti led the Madrid club to Champions League and La Liga victories, cementing his place among the greats of coaching. On the women’s side, Emma Hayes, the current coach of the United States women’s national team, was honoured for her Olympic gold medal in Paris and her fifth consecutive Women’s Super League title with Chelsea.
The Puskas Award, for the best goal of the year, went to Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho for his incredible overhead kick against Everton. Finally, Marta won the inaugural FIFA Marta Award, named in honour of the Brazilian legend, for her solo goal against Jamaica in an international friendly.
The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024 showcased the talent and efforts of football’s greatest players, providing moments of emotion and celebration for a season full of exceptional performances. These accolades reflect the dedication, hard work and passion that drive the players in this universal sport, building a history of triumph and glory, to the delight of fans around the world.