Cristiano Ronaldo said on Friday (December 27) that Vinicius Junior deserved this year's Ballon d'Or, adding that galas "always do the same thing", and that is why he preferred the "honest" Globe Soccer Awards.
Vinicius finished second in voting behind Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri to miss out on the prestigious award.
Real Madrid, meanwhile dominated the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards on Friday with Vini Jr scooping the Men's Best Player honor.
READ: Vinicius and Bonmati named FIFA Best players of the year
READ: Rodri wins men's Ballon d'Or as Real Madrid boycott
Vini Jr scooped the award ahead of club teammate Jude Bellingham and Ronaldo, while also being named the best forward of the year.
Bellingham won the best midfielder of the year accolade as well as the Maradona award, while club goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois received a career award.
Real Madrid were named men’s club of the year, with coach Carlo Ancelotti best coach of 2024.
Ronaldo was honored as the best Middle East-based player, and also received a custom-made trophy as the top goal scorer of all time.
(Production: Stefan Haskins)