As the sun set on a momentous night in Paris, a new chapter was added to the illustrious legacy of the Ballon d’Or, with Manchester City’sRodri Hernndez now standing tall among football’s elite. The midfielder, who has emerged as one of the most influential figures in the game, became the first player in his club’s history to secure this prestigious accolade, awarded to the best footballer of the year. For Rodri, it was a night of pride not just for himself but for his family, his club, and his country.

Rodri’s rise to Ballon d’Or fame wasn’t just a story of individual brilliance but of collective triumph. In a season where he missed only one game across all competitions, the 28-year-old’s influence was felt in every corner of the football world. He led Spain to victory in Euro 2024, adding the UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup to Manchester City’s overflowing trophy cabinet, capping an unforgettable year.

The main event of the night saw Rodri step onto the stage, albeit with crutches after an ACL injury sidelined him recently, to accept the award with immense humility. “This is not a victory for me alone,” he shared with palpable emotion, “but for Spanish football.” Rodri dedicated his win to the legendary Spanish midfielders who came before him, including Andrs Iniesta and Xavi Hernndez, whose brilliance helped define the essence of Spanish football.

While Rodri’s triumph brought joy, it left Real Madrid’s delegation notably absent, reportedly in protest of their star Vinicius Jr. not winning the award. Yet, even in their absence, the echoes of Madrid’s success were acknowledged, with the club named Club of the Year, and Carlo Ancelotti honored as Men’s Coach of the Year.

Despite a year where Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were absent from the nominees for the first time since 2003, the Ballon d’Or ceremony felt like a celebration of the new guard. Rodri’s award marks the arrival of the next generation and a new type of superstar who prizes team success over individual accolades.

Rodri’s win puts midfielders in the spotlight: A tribute to the game’s unsung heroes

Rodri’s influence extends beyond his goal-scoring numbers. He netted a career-high nine goals last season, including a crucial strike in Manchester City’s title-clinching win over West Ham. But his game is more about presence and orchestration from midfield, where his role as a holding midfielder has been nothing short of indispensable.

The Spain international also took home the Player of the Tournament award at the Euros, despite having to exit the final early due to injury. His presence in the squad and his game-changing performance across the tournament demonstrated his value to the Spanish national team, solidifying his reputation as one of the sport’s most reliable anchors.

For Rodri, the honor was a moment of visibility for midfielders everywhere. “Today, many friends have told me that football has won, for giving visibility to so many midfielders who work in the shadows,” he said. His understated style, quiet determination, and commitment to values outside the game have made him a role model on and off the field.

Reflecting on his ACL injury, which will see him out for the season, Rodri remained hopeful.“I’m focusing on taking care of myself, enjoying time with family, and coming back stronger,” he said, his voice steady with resolve. For now, his focus is on recovery, but his journey to the Ballon d’Or has already left an indelible mark on football’s grandest stage.