The Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo has updated its opinion column with a striking headline: Vinicius Jr. Does Not Deserve the Ballon d’Or.
The main content reads as follows: “Individual awards have always had a downside, as comparisons are often difficult to make. This is even more true for team awards, but an international award like the Ballon d’Or should serve a dual purpose: it should not only reward an athlete’s achievements and career but also recognize a player who can be a role model.”
“The Ballon d’Or has a 68-year history and has always 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 the players’ performances but also whether their behavior on and off the field sets a good example.”
“In the previous selection, Vinicius Jr. won the Socrates Prize for his opposition to racism, and his work is commendable. However, this does not mean that his behavior as a player, his interactions with opponents and referees during matches, meet the standards. His actions are rude, and his words are despicable. His various behaviors cannot be justified by the attacks he receives, nor can the insults he suffers be used as an excuse to absolve him. In conclusion, Vinicius Jr. does not deserve the Ballon d’Or, and if he does not change his attitude, he should never receive it.”
