Brazilian football legend, Ronaldo Nazario, has shared an emotional message after his fellow country man Vinicius Junior was crowned the men’s player at the 2024 The Best FIFA Awards.
The former Brazil international and Real Madrid legend took to social media to applaud his compatriot for fighting back to win the award despite his black race and color.
The 24-year-old winger recently lost the Ballon d’or title to Rodri, but bounced back this time to win the prestigious FIFA award ahead of the Spaniard who finished second in the votings.
Vinicius Junior and the Real Madrid franchise refused to honor the Ballon d’or ceremony in October. A decision that was backed by club President Florentino Perez, who later described the decision to award Rodri the award as “disrespectful”.
Ronaldo Nazario wasted little time to congratulate his fellow countryman Vinicius for winning the award. Ronaldo stated in a social media post, “They tried to erase you, my friend and you danced on them”.
“The best player in the world is Black and Brazilian.”
The 48-year-old’s post throws more support and solidarity to players who have been denied top awards due to their color and race.
Vinicius played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s Champions League and La Liga-winning campaign. The mercurial winger scored 24 goals in the 2023/24 season. He also provided 11 assists in that remarkable season.
He also becomes just the first Brazilian to win the The Best FIFA Men’s award since its introduction in 2016.
