Real Madrid star Rodrygo has voiced his disappointment after being left off the 30-man shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, despite playing a pivotal role in his club’s LaLiga and Champions League double last season. In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Rodrygo admitted feeling “upset” by the omission, especially with several of his Real Madrid teammates, including Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and summer signing Kylian Mbappé, making the list.
“I was upset, I think I deserved it,” Rodrygo said. “I don’t want to undermine the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise… but there’s not much I can do, I’m not the one who decides these things.”
The 23-year-old forward netted 10 goals in 34 LaLiga appearances and added five more in the Champions League, but that was not enough to earn him a spot in the prestigious shortlist. The Ballon d’Or winner will be announced at a ceremony in Paris on October 28.
Rodrygo’s place in the team has come under pressure with the arrival of Mbappé this season, but manager Carlo Ancelotti has continued to rely on him in Madrid’s three-man attack. Following his Ballon d’Or snub, Rodrygo posted pictures of himself lifting trophies with Madrid, accompanied by a laughing emoji, which he confirmed was meant to mock the situation.
“I made a somewhat mocking post,” he explained. “Everyone knows my indignation. People [at Real Madrid and Brazil] have been supportive, sending me messages.”
Rodrygo also reflected on his versatility, which he believes has occasionally hindered his growth, particularly with Brazil. He recently scored the only goal in Brazil’s 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a World Cup qualifier, but admitted that his ability to fill various positions has sometimes held him back. “Often, I’m just filling spaces… It may get in my way a little, but I’m a team player.”
The interview ended on a light-hearted note, as Rodrygo discussed Real Madrid and Brazil youngster Endrick, who has earned the nickname “Bobby” after citing England legend Bobby Charlton as an idol. “Now he has become Bobby!” Rodrygo joked. “There’s nothing to be done—if he gets angry, it’s worse!”
