December 17, (THEWILL) – The FIFA Best Football Awards 2024, held at the Aspire Academy in Doha, Qatar, officially declared the outstanding talents in football for the year.
The awards ceremony, which took place on Tuesday, honoured individuals who have excelled in various roles within the sport, from players to coaches, across both men’s and women’s football.
Vinicius Junior from Brazil, representing Real Madrid, was named the Best FIFA Men’s Player of 2024.
His contributions to the club’s success in domestic and international competitions were instrumental in his victory.
On the women’s side, Spain’s Aitana Bonmati, playing for FC Barcelona, retained her title as The Best FIFA Women’s Player for the second consecutive year, recognizing her exceptional performances throughout the season.
The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper award went to Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez, who plays for Aston Villa. Martinez’s remarkable saves and performances in crucial matches were key to his selection.
In the women’s category, Mary Earps from England, currently with Manchester United, was awarded The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper, acknowledging her significant impact in goal.
For coaching excellence, Carlo Ancelotti of Italy, leading Real Madrid, received the accolade of The Best FIFA Men’s Coach.
His strategic leadership and success in guiding his team to multiple titles were evident. Emma Hayes, now at the helm of the US Women’s National Team, was celebrated as The Best FIFA Women’s Coach for 2024, following her achievements in the previous season with Chelsea.
The FIFA Puskás Award, which rewards the most beautiful goal of the year, was awarded to Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho for his stunning bicycle kick against Everton.
The FIFA Fair Play Award was bestowed upon Brazilian Thiago Maia for his actions during the floods in Rio Grande do Sul, where he saved lives and animals, evidence of true sportsmanship beyond the pitch.
The ceremony also introduced the FIFA Marta Award, named after the Brazilian football legend, for the best goal in women’s football. This year’s inaugural recipient was Marta herself for her impressive strike against Jamaica.
The event concluded with a celebration of football’s finest, reinforcing the sport’s global appeal and the high standards of performance that continue to define it.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
