Vinicius Junior sought to dig for the Ballon d'Or after being crowned the best player in the world by FIFA on Tuesday.
The 24-year-old Real Madrid and Brazil striker claimed the prestigious award with 48 points, ahead of Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who got 43 points, and Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham, who scored 37 points.
The award is determined by a combination of votes from national team coaches, captains, journalists and fans.
Vinicius' win comes on the heels of him losing the Ballon d'Or, which was awarded to Rodri earlier this year.
This decision prompted Real Madrid to boycott the concert in protest.
“Today I write to the kid who has seen so many idols lift that cup,” Vinicius shared on Instagram after receiving the award.
“It's his time. Or rather, my time has come. It's time to say yes, I'm the best player in the world and I fought hard for that.”
They have tried and are trying to invalidate my career and belittle me. But they are not ready. No one will tell me who I should fight for, how I should act.
“When I was in São Gonçalo, the system didn't care about me. It almost swallowed me up.
“I won for myself and my family. With a lot of support along the way: Flamengo, Real Madrid, the Brazilian national team, hundreds of my teammates over the years, the people who accompany me every day in my routine, those who admire me, the best player in the world. World “
Vinicius was honored for his exceptional 2023-24 season, during which he played a key role in helping Real Madrid achieve the La Liga and Champions League double.
In October, Vinicius expressed his frustration after missing out on winning the Ballon d'Or, saying: “I would do it 10 times if I had to. They're not ready.”
Vinicius' achievement won praise from many in the football world, including Neymar, who encouraged his compatriot to “keep flying” in an Instagram story to celebrate his victory.
