Rodrigo believes he deserves to be among the contenders for the Ballon d'Or

Real Madrid winger and Brazilian international Rodrigo believes he deserved to be among the contenders for the Ballon d'Or.

"I was upset because I think I deserved to be there. I don't want to diminish the achievements of the players who were nominated, but I believe there would have been a place for me among the 30. It was unexpected... But there's little I can do; the decision is not mine to make.

I posted something that could be interpreted as a jest. Right now, I have nothing else to say. Everyone knows I'm frustrated. Everyone (supported me), both in the national team and at Real Madrid. I received messages," Rodrigo told ESPN.

The Brazilian was not included in the list of 30 players nominated for the award in 2024.