The Ballon d’Or gala took place on Monday, October 28 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, with Brazil’s Vinicius as the frontrunner for the best male footballer of the year award. Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas were also in the running for the best female player award.
While Vinicius had a successful season with 26 goals and 12 assists, winning both the Champions League and LaLiga with Real Madrid, his teammate Jude Bellingham and Spanish midfielder Rodri were strong contenders as well. Other players such as Dani Carvajal, Toni Kroos, Phil Foden, and Lamine Yamal were also part of the conversation for the prestigious award.
Despite the honor and prestige that comes with winning the Ballon d’Or, there is no direct cash prize associated with the award. However, some players may have bonuses in their contracts from their teams or sponsors if they win the award.
The process of manufacturing the Ballon d’Or involves intricate craftsmanship, with two brass plates being embossed to create the shape of a soccer ball. The goldsmith solders the pieces together, while the chiseler adds details such as the seams of the ball. The award is then bathed in gold and mounted on a pyrite base, costing approximately $13,800 and taking six months to complete.
On the night of the award ceremony, a goldsmith engraves the winner’s name on the Ballon d’Or before presenting it to the deserving recipient. The award is a symbol of excellence in football and is highly coveted by players around the world.
