On December 27, 2024, Dubai hosted the 15th edition of the prestigious Globe Soccer Awards. The event brought together the biggest names in football to celebrate the year's most outstanding achievements. While Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi were absent from the Ballon d'Or race, they still made their presence felt, alongside rising stars and new footballing talents.
The awards recognized an impressive roster of football stars. Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid clinched both Best Player and Best Forward, while Jude Bellingham took home Best Midfielder and the Maradona Award for his inspirational performances. Aitana Bonmati from Barcelona was named Best Women’s Player. Real Madrid dominated the club categories, with Carlo Ancelotti crowned Best Coach and Lamine Yamal awarded Best Young Player. Jorge Mendes, a cornerstone of the awards, secured his 12th Best Agent win.
Cristiano Ronaldo received the award for Best Player in the Middle East for his stellar contributions at Al Nassr, while Jorge Jesus of Al Hilal was named Best Coach. Al Ain took home the Best Middle Eastern Club award. These achievements highlight the region's growing influence on global football.
Real Madrid President Florentino Perez was named the "Best President in History" for his transformative leadership. Cristiano Ronaldo was celebrated for surpassing 900 career goals, cementing his legacy as the all-time top scorer. Icons like Rio Ferdinand, Alessandro Del Piero, Neymar, and Thibaut Courtois also received special recognition for their contributions to the sport.
"Unstoppable: The Italian Dream," a Starzplay production, won the Best TV Partnership Award, reflecting its role in promoting regional sports talent. CEO Maaz Sheikh expressed pride in delivering impactful content that resonates with audiences across the region.
The Globe Soccer Awards 2024 celebrated football’s past, present, and future, bridging global and regional achievements with unmatched fanfare. From record-breaking players to influential media initiatives, the event highlighted the sport’s power to inspire and unite.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.