Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has been named the winner of the 2024 Ballon d'Or.
The Spaniard was a favourite for the award, and this was shrouded with controversy after Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior decided to boycott Monday's ceremony in Paris following reports that he would not be on stage picking up the trophy.
For Rodri, his record speaks for itself in the 2023/24 season. The 28-year-old lost just one match for club and country as he helped City to triumphs in the UEFA Super Cup, Premier League and Club World Cup.
Then came Euro 2024 where Rodri was a key player in Spain's success in Germany where they beat England 2-1 in Berlin to win a fourth European Championship.
Speaking after receiving the award, Rodri struggled to contain his emotions.
"A very special day, for me, my family and my country," he said in Spanish before saying the following in English.
"I try to improve every day, try to level up my game."
While winning the Ballon d'Or will be a marquee moment for Rodri's career, it will also be bittersweet with the midfielder sidelined by an ACL injury which will force him to miss the rest of the 2024/25 season.
When asked about the injury, Rodri was upbeat and looking to enjoy the recovery period.
"I am just trying to take care of myself. Rest, enjoy the free time with my family and come back stronger."
Rodri finished ahead of Madrid's Vinicius Junior who was confirmed as runner-up in the 2024 Ballon d'Or voting with Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal finishing third and fourth respectively.