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After losing to Rodri, Vini Jr is already the odds-on favourite to win the Ballon d'Or next year.
Just a day after losing the 2024 Ballon d'Or to Manchester City midfielder Rodri, Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr has emerged as the odds-on favourite to take home the prestigious award next year.
According to bookmakers William Hill, the Brazilian winger is installed as the 7/2 favourite to win in 2025, setting off a wave of excitement among fans who felt he was overlooked in this year’s ceremony.
The 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony was notably contentious, with no Real Madrid representatives present, sparking controversy over potential bias and snubs.
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The 24-year-old Samba star who enjoyed a stellar season with Real Madrid, finished second, behind Rodri, who was a 50/1 outsider.
However, the bookmakers' projections for 2025, place him ahead of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, who stands at 9/2, and his Los Blancos teammate Kylian Mbappé, at 5/1.
Meanwhile, Kopa Trophy winner and Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal also makes the cut with odds of 7/1.
“Vinicius Jr was pipped to the finish line”
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A spokesperson for William Hill, Lee Phelps, shared insight into Vinicius' current standing and odds:
"Vinicius Jr was pipped to the finish line by Rodri in last night’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, but the Brazilian is the early frontrunner with us to win next year’s competition."
Phelps added that Vinicius is "favoured ahead of a host of the world's best," highlighting Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal as some of his top challengers.
With other football superstars like Jude Bellingham (10/1), Mohamed Salah (25/1), and Harry Kane (16/1) rounding out the list, the race promises high stakes and fierce competition.
Vinicius’ early favouritism reflects his phenomenal impact on the field, leaving fans and analysts alike hoping for a Ballon d'Or-winning year in 2025.
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