What Vinicius Junior said about ‘critics’ after winning FIFA Men’s Player of the Year award
Real Madrid and Brazil star Vinicius Junior has sent a powerful message to his critics after winning FIFA’s The Best Men’s Player award.
Vinicius was recognised for his incredible performances in the past year, where he helped Real Madrid win La Liga and the Champions League. Despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or to Rodri in October, the Brazilian forward received this major honour in Qatar.
After winning the award, Vinicius shared an emotional message on Instagram. He said: “Today, I write to the boy who watched so many idols win this trophy… your time has come. My time has come. Time to say… yes, I am the best player in the world and I fought hard for it. They tried and still try to invalidate me and bring me down. But they are not ready. No one will tell me who I should fight for or how I should act. When I was in São Gonçalo, the system didn’t care about me. I was almost swallowed. I won for me, for my family, and with a lot of support from Flamengo, Real Madrid, the Brazilian national team, and all my teammates over the years. I also thank the people who follow me and admire me… THE BEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD.”
Vinicius has been vocal about his fight against racism in Spain, and this victory is a major personal achievement for him.
Next, Vinicius and Real Madrid will aim to add another trophy to their collection as they face Mexican club Pachuca in the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup in Qatar.
