Brazilian legend Ronaldo raved that “the best player in the world is black and Brazilian” as he paid tribute to Vinicius Junior on Tuesday.
Vinicius was named FIFA's best men's player of 2024, two months after being snubbed for the Ballon d'Or.
The Brazilian winger led Real Madrid to glory in LaLiga and the Champions League, scoring in the European final victory over Borussia Dortmund.
However, he received his individual reward at the FIFA ceremony, and ex-Madrid and Seleção superstar Ronaldo was delighted to see his compatriot honoured.
Vinicius has been the subject of racist abuse, including in a match against Valencia in 2023, which led to three football fans being sentenced to eight months in prison.
That is why Ronaldo also sees the 24-year-old's triumph as a victory for the 'anonymous Viniciuses' who have also suffered.
#The Best FIFA Men's Player 2024@ViniJr pic.twitter.com/DnAnmiBlg7
— Real Madrid CF (@realmadriden) December 17, 2024
“Talk about regaining respect for Brazilian football, look at him,” Ronaldo posted alongside a photo of Vinicius on his Instagram page. “@vinijr, maximum respect!
“Sixteen years have passed since the last time the trophy for the best player in the world came to Brazil. Now rightly in the hands of Vini, this means much more than his decisive role in the games and the extraordinary figures in the 2023-season 2024. Because If he were to receive the award, his talent would be enough, but his power extends far beyond the field.
“We are talking about one of the most valuable players of today, a victim of racism on television with an unimaginable frequency.
'How many anonymous Viniciuses does he represent? How many victims spread around the world?
“A symbol of resistance and resilience, Vini is also leading the anti-racist struggle in world football today, where impunity is as damaging as the attacks.
“And those who remain silent are no less racist. Inaction – especially by entities and authorities with the legal power to address and punish such practices – further reinforces the culture of erasure and disrespect towards Black people.
“They tried to erase you, my friend. And you left a trail. THE BEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD IS BLACK AND BRAZILIAN.'
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