Cristiano Ronaldo took to Instagram to praise his fellow Brazilian Vinicius Jr for being named The Best FIFA Men's Player, becoming the first Brazilian to win the award in 16 years. Ronaldo hailed Vinicius as a "symbol of resistance and resilience" not just for his on-field talent, but also for his ongoing battle against racism. Real Madrid's head coach Carlo Ancelotti also received an award at the ceremony, stating that football has given him "a lot of emotions" throughout his 48-year-long career.
Vinicius Jr. Crowned FIFA's Best Men's Player
In a historic moment, Vinicius Jr. has become the first Brazilian to win FIFA's Best Men's Player award in 16 years. The Real Madrid star received high praise from his fellow Brazilian, Cristiano Ronaldo, who hailed him as a symbol of "resistance and resilience" both on and off the field.
Vinicius Jr.'s award is a testament to his exceptional talent and the challenges he has overcome. The 22-year-old has been a key player for Real Madrid, helping them win the UEFA Champions League and La Liga in the past year. However, he has also been the target of racist abuse, which he has bravely spoken out against.
Ronaldo's Praise
In an Instagram post, Ronaldo said: "Congratulations Vinicius Jr. for winning the Best FIFA Men's Player Award. You are a symbol of resistance and resilience, not only for your on-field talent, but also for your ongoing battle against racism. Keep inspiring us all."
Ancelotti's Recognition
Real Madrid's head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, also received an award at the ceremony. He was named FIFA's Best Men's Coach after guiding Real Madrid to a record-breaking season. Ancelotti said that football has given him "a lot of emotions" throughout his long career.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who is Vinicius Jr.? Vinicius Jr. is a 22-year-old Brazilian winger who plays for Real Madrid. He is known for his exceptional speed, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring ability.
2. Why did Vinicius Jr. win FIFA's Best Men's Player Award? Vinicius Jr. won the award based on his outstanding performances for Real Madrid and his contributions to the fight against racism.
3. Who is Cristiano Ronaldo? Cristiano Ronaldo is a 38-year-old Portuguese forward who is considered one of the greatest players of all time. He has won five Ballon d'Or awards and numerous other accolades.
4. Why is Vinicius Jr. a symbol of resistance and resilience? Vinicius Jr. has been targeted by racist abuse throughout his career, but he has refused to be silenced. He has spoken out against racism and has become a role model for others who face similar challenges.
5. What is the significance of Ancelotti's award? Ancelotti's award recognizes his remarkable success with Real Madrid. He has won the Champions League four times and the La Liga title three times.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot expressed profound sorrow and solidarity with the family of Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash along with his brother. Jota, a fan favourite known for his tireless work ethic and crucial goals, had played an instrumental role in Liverpool's Premier League title run. As tributes pour in from across the footballing world, Slot and Liverpool have vowed to keep Jota's memory alive.
The football world was left in shock and mourning after the tragic news of the passing of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre, in a car crash while on holiday in Spain. The 28-year-old forward, who also played for Portugal and various club teams, was remembered by his former teammates and colleagues, including Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, and fellow countryman Cristiano Ronaldo. The football community offers their condolences to the Jota family and hopes for peace for their loved ones in this difficult time.
In a devastating blow to the sporting world, Portugal and Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, were killed in a car crash in Spain. Jota, who was only 28 years old, and Silva, who was 25, were involved in the accident while trying to overtake another car on a highway near the Portuguese border. The news of Jota's death has not only sent shockwaves through the football community, but also touched the hearts of athletes from other sports, such as 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal who expressed his condolences for the young player and his family.
After a thrilling match at Wimbledon, Marin Cilic emerged victorious over Jack Draper, booking his spot in the third round. The former US Open champion showed off his impressive serving skills, firing 16 aces against the Briton. In his on-court interview, Cilic expressed his emotions and credited his team for their support throughout his long and dedicated career. With this win, he also made history by becoming the third-oldest player to defeat a top-five opponent at Wimbledon, surpassing big names like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.
World champion Magnus Carlsen has raised doubts about reigning champion Gukesh's performance in shorter time control formats, ahead of their first face-off since the infamous table smashing incident in Norway Chess. However, Gukesh has started strong in the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia, leading the 10-player field along with Carlsen himself. The event will see players compete in rapid and blitz formats, where Gukesh has struggled in the past. With tough competition in the field, including Gukesh's compatriot Praggnanandhaa, Carlsen will have to prove himself against Gukesh in rapid and blitz games.
Harry Brook, the white-ball captain of England, has revealed his reasons for opting out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and his desire to participate in the tournament in the future. Despite being bought by Delhi Capitals for a whopping INR 6.25 crore, Brook chose to prioritize his duties to the national team, violating BCCI's new rule. However, he remains hopeful of playing in the IPL after his two-year suspension. In the ongoing series against India, Brook impressed with 99 runs in the first test and also praised Indian player Rishabh Pant.
Shubman Gill, the captain of Team India, made an impressive performance on day 2 of the ongoing Test against England at Edgbaston, becoming the Indian captain with the highest test score by scoring 269 runs. India's new number four batsman proved to be a major problem for England's bowling attack. Meanwhile, Indian pacer Akash Deep made a comeback after giving 11 runs in the first over, picking up two wickets in two balls in the third over of England's innings, putting pressure on the opposition's top order.
In the second Test match between India and England, Indian skipper Shubman Gill dominated the field with an incredible 269 off 387 deliveries, setting the record for the highest individual score by an Indian player against England. His performance helped India reach a massive total of 587 all out. Later, India's pace attack dismantled England's top order, with Akash Deep taking two wickets in two consecutive deliveries. Gill's outstanding performance not only made him the first Asian skipper to score a double century on English soil, but also raised his average to 40 in just three innings in England.
After defeating world champion Magnus Carlsen in classical chess a few weeks back, Indian teenager Gukesh has now done it again in rapid chess at the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025 in Zagreb. Carlsen, playing with white pieces and in a supposedly weaker format for Gukesh, resigned in the 49th move with a muted reaction. Gukesh, on the other hand, has been on a streak of victories against some of the strongest players in the tournament, proving his skills and causing former world champion Garry Kasparov to question Carlsen's domination.
In the second Test against England, Indian skipper Shubman Gill made history by becoming the first Asian captain to score a double century in England. His epic innings of 200 runs helped India reach a commanding position of 564/7 at tea on Day 2. Despite a flat track, England was unable to stop Gill's onslaught, as he formed a formidable partnership with Washington Sundar. Gill's remarkable achievement is a noteworthy moment in his first series as Test skipper, proving himself as a match-winner for India.