Cristiano Ronaldo was named Best Middle East Player at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards, held in Dubai on Friday.
This prestigious event, known for honouring excellence in football, brought the sport’s biggest stars to Dubai to celebrate their achievements.
Organised in collaboration with major organisations like UEFA and the UAE Pro League, the Globe Soccer Awards recognise excellence across all aspects of football.
Ronaldo’s award acknowledges his remarkable impact on Saudi Arabian football following his high-profile move to Al Nassr.
His transfer to the Saudi Pro League has captured global attention, showcasing football’s growing influence beyond its traditional hubs.
Additionally, Ronaldo was honoured as the all-time top goal scorer, receiving the accolade of Top Goal Scorer of All Time.
Although he was not included in the 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI, his contributions to the sport remain significant, solidifying his prominence both on and off the pitch.
This recognition marks yet another milestone to the renowned career of the Portuguese legend.
A great way to end the year. Thank you to my teammates, staff, to everyone who has supported me along the way, and especially to my family. There is still more to come! pic.twitter.com/zJOHDJ9ZEL
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) December 27, 2024
During the ceremony, Ronaldo made headlines with his bold claim that the Saudi Pro League surpasses France’s Ligue 1.
“Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France only has PSG. The rest are finished. Try to sprint in 38, 39, 40 degree weather and see”
Ronaldo also spoke about the ongoing struggles at his former club, Manchester United, stating that the issues go beyond the coaching staff.
“I love Manchester United, I want the best for them. The problem is NOT the coach, it’s different.”
Turning to the 2024 Ballon d’Or results, Ronaldo expressed his preference for Vinicius Jr over the winner, Rodrigo Hernández Cascante (Rodri), calling the decision unfair.
“Vinicius Jr should have won the Ballon d’Or, it’s been unfair decision. This is why I love Globe Soccer Awards, as they are honest.”
“Vinicius Jr deserved the Ballon d’Or”, says Cristiano Ronaldo. ✨ pic.twitter.com/J3lsCPkzqa
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 27, 2024
Vinicius Jr had a standout evening at the ceremony, winning both the Best Player and Best Forward awards.
His exceptional contributions to Real Madrid’s successful year were recognised, including his crucial roles in their Champions League, La Liga, European Super Cup, Spanish Super Cup, and Intercontinental Cup triumphs.
Vinicius ended the year with 24 goals, scoring in several decisive matches, including the Champions League final, the Intercontinental Cup final, and a hat-trick in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona.
In response to Ronaldo’s praise, Vinicius confidently said, “If Cristiano said I’m the best, then I am!”
— Vini Jr. (@vinijr) December 27, 2024
2024 Globe Soccer Award Categories and Winners
- Best Men’s player (18 finalists): Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
- Best Midfielder (11 nominees): Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
- Best Forward (10 nominees): Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
- Best Women’s player (12 finalists): Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona)
- Best Men’s club (10 finalists): Real Madrid
- Best Women’s club (4 finalists): Barcelona
- Best Coach (7 finalists, all in men’s football): Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid)
- Best Emerging player (7 finalists, all men): Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
- Best Agent (7 nominees): Jorge Mendes
- Best Sporting Director (6 nominees): Piero Ausilio (Inter Milan)
- Best Middle Eastern player (5 finalists): Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
- Best Middle Eastern coach: Jorge Jesus (Al Hilal)
- Best Middle Eastern club (4 finalists): Al Ain
- Revelation award: Olympiacos
- Maradona Award: Jude Bellingham
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez was honoured with a career-recognition award, earning the title of “The Greatest President of All Time.”
Meanwhile, former England and Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, along with Alessandro Del Piero, Neymar, and Thibaut Courtois, were also recognised for their outstanding, career-spanning contributions to the sport.
Recognised for his exceptional career, world-class defender and Manchester United great Rio Ferdinand was awarded the Player Career Award at the Beyond Developments Globe Soccer Dubai Awards ceremony in Dubai ✨ pic.twitter.com/fquayW1C5z
— Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) December 27, 2024
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