World Sports Opinion: Vinícius Júnior Does Not Deserve the Ballon d’Or

Today, Spain’s Mundo Deportivo has updated its opinion column with a striking headline: Vinícius Júnior Does Not Deserve the Ballon d’Or.

The main content reads as follows: “Individual awards have always had a downside, as it is often difficult to make comparisons. This is even more so for team awards. However, an international award like the Ballon d’Or should serve a dual purpose: to reward an athlete’s achievements and career, and to recognize a player who can be a role model.”

“The Ballon d’Or has a 68-year history and has consistently evolved with the times. Today, the influence of the Ballon d’Or has reached its peak, with over 100 journalists from around the world playing a significant role. When they cast their votes, they should consider not only a player’s performance but also whether their behavior on and off the field meets the standards of a role model.”

“In the previous edition of the award, Vinícius Júnior won the Socrates Prize for his opposition to racism, and his work in this area is commendable. However, this does not mean that his behavior as a player, his interactions with opponents and referees during matches, meet the required standards. His behavior is rude, and his comments are despicable. His actions do not justify the attacks he receives, nor do the insults he faces excuse his behavior. In conclusion, Vinícius Júnior does not deserve the Ballon d’Or, and if he does not change his attitude, he should never receive it.”