The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024 unveiled its winners in a grand gala held on December 17 in Doha, Qatar. Vinícius Jr, Aitana Bonmatí, and Carlo Ancelotti emerged as standout honorees, claiming prestigious accolades for their outstanding contributions to football over the past year. The event brought together the global football community, with winners decided through votes from national team coaches, captains, media representatives, and fans on FIFA’s platform.
Vinícius Jr won the Best FIFA Men’s Player award with 48 points, surpassing Rodri (43 points) and Jude Bellingham (37 points). The Real Madrid star garnered immense support worldwide, including votes from Brazil’s Danilo and Dorival Junior, while Lionel Messi placed him third behind Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé. The award marks a milestone for Vinícius Jr, celebrating his exceptional performances throughout the season.
In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmatí retained her Best FIFA Women’s Player title with a dominant 52 points. Her unparalleled success resonated globally, receiving votes from captains and coaches across continents. Barbra Banda (39 points) and Caroline Graham Hansen (37 points) followed in second and third place, respectively. Bonmatí’s remarkable achievements have solidified her place as one of football’s brightest stars.
The Best FIFA Men’s Coach award was presented to Carlo Ancelotti for the first time in his illustrious career. Ancelotti claimed the title with 26 points, ahead of Xabi Alonso (22 points) and Luis de la Fuente (11 points). Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Luciano Spalletti notably supported their compatriot, recognizing his managerial brilliance with Real Madrid.
On the women’s side, Emma Hayes secured the Best FIFA Women’s Coach honor with 23 points, narrowly beating Jonatan Giráldez (20 points) and Arthur Elias (13 points). Hayes’ leadership and tactical expertise earned her global recognition, particularly from captains like Lindsay Horan and Leah Williamson.
In the goalkeeping categories, Emiliano Martínez regained the Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper award with 26 points, surpassing Ederson (16 points) and Unai Simón (13 points). The Argentina international received significant support, including from Lionel Scaloni and Lionel Messi. Alyssa Naeher won the Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper award, excelling with 26 points. She outperformed Cata Coll (22 points) and Mary Earps (11 points), with endorsements from Brazil’s Marta and coach Arthur Elias.
The FIFA Puskás Award for the best goal was claimed by Alejandro Garnacho, while Guilherme Gandra Moura earned the FIFA Fan Award for his unwavering support. The FIFA Fair Play Award was presented to Thiago Maia, recognizing his exemplary sportsmanship.
The 2024 awards not only celebrated individual excellence but also highlighted the growing influence of fan engagement, fair play, and innovation in football. The detailed voting breakdown for each award underscores the inclusivity and transparency of the selection process, reflecting a global consensus on football’s best performers.
