Ronaldo De Lima has hailed Vinicius as a “symbol of resistance and resilience” after he was named the Best FIFA Men’s Player.

Vinicius was named this year’s World Player of the Year at a ceremony on Tuesday, a fitting reward for his incredible contribution to Real Madrid’s Champions League and La Liga triumphs.

The honour comes just two months after he and Real Madrid boycotted the Ballon d’Or gala after Manchester City star Rodri was revealed as the winner.

The 24-year-old has spoken about his journey from poverty to being named the best player on the planet. His determination has been backed by a statement from two-time World Cup winner Ronaldo, who highlighted Vinicius’ role in fighting racism while he shined on the pitch.

“It’s been 16 years since the last World Player of the Year award came to Brazil,” Ronaldo wrote on Instagram. “Now it’s rightfully Vini. This speaks not only to his decisive role in games and his extraordinary numbers in the 2023/24 season. His talent alone would have won him the award, but Vini’s influence goes far beyond the pitch.

“We are talking about one of the most valuable players in the world today, a victim of racism that is broadcast live with unimaginable frequency. How many anonymous people like him does Vini represent? How many victims scattered everywhere? A symbol of resistance and resilience, Vini today also leads the fight against racism in world football, where tolerance is as toxic as the attacks. And silence is no less racist. Indifference – especially from institutions and authorities with the legal power to confront and punish these acts – reinforces the culture of erasure and disrespect for black people.

“They tried to erase you, my friend. But you shined. THE BEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD IS BLACK AND BRAZILIAN!”