The Real Madrid player was a front-runner for the award following a spectacular season in which he won the Champions League and La Liga.
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It was announced on Monday that he and other Real Madrid executives and players would not be going to the Paris ceremony.
He had reportedly arranged a private party and chartered airplane, and the rejection seemed to be a direct reaction to accusations that he had not accepted the reward.
The Brazil international responded to former teammate Toni Kroos on social media, but he did not issue a statement on the subject.
“The best” is the remark that the former Germany international posted on Instagram after learning that his teammate Vinicius Jr. had not won the Ballon d’Or award.
Vinicius uttered the words “I love you Antonio!!” in the comments.
Before the major twist, MARCA was adamant that Vinicius would win the Ballon d’Or, as stated on the front page of Monday’s newspaper.
Los Blancos were not present to accept the Team of the Year award, which Real Madrid won after their double victory under Carlo Ancelotti last season.
Sports Bible reports that the hosts swiftly congratulated Real and moved on.
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