Real Madrid’s Rodrygo ‘upset’ over Ballon d’Or top 30 snub: Think I deserved it

Brazilian forward Rodrygo recently reflected on his absence from the 30-player shortlist for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, speculating that his versatility may have played a role in the snub. Despite a strong season with Real Madrid, where the 23-year-old netted 17 goals and provided nine assists across 51 matches, Rodrygo was left off the list.

Several of his Real Madrid teammates, including Vinicius Jr, Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal, Federico Valverde, Antonio Rudiger, and the retired Toni Kroos, secured nominations. New arrival Kylian Mbappe, who joined Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain during the summer transfer window, was also included in the esteemed selection.

Speaking to ESPN, Rodrygo said that he was upset over the snub and thought he deserved it. The Brazilian admitted that it was a surprise for him that he was excluded from the list and he cannot do much about it.

“I was upset, I think I deserved it,” Rodrygo told ESPN in an exclusive interview on Sunday. “I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise… But there’s not much I can do, I’m not the one who decides these things.”

Rodrygo admitted that he made a mocking post after the nominees list was announced and said a lot of people sent him messages of support.

“I made a somewhat mocking post,” Rodrygo told ESPN. “Now there’s not much to say. Everyone knows my indignation. Everyone [has supported me], both in the national team and at Real Madrid. People sent messages.”

I’m a team player

Rodrygo admitted that he had been filling in different roles and that may have played a role in his snub.

“Often, I’m just filling spaces,” Rodrygo said. “Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in. Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo. Is someone missing as No. 9? Rodrygo. That’s it. It may get in my way a little, but I’m a team player.”

The winner of the Ballon d’Or will be announced on October 28.