Rodri was named World Footballer of the Year at the 68th Ballon d’Or gala in Paris on Monday.
The Spaniard wins the award for the first time and succeeds Lionel Messi.
He trumped Vinícius Júnior (second) and Jude Bellingham (third) at the Théatre du Chatelet
The 28-year-old Rodri became European champion with Spain last summer and won the English league title with Manchester City.
The midfielder was named best player of the tournament at the European Championship in Germany. The Ballon d’Or is awarded based on performances from August 2023 to July 2024.
Rodri is currently sidelined with an injury at Manchester City.
The playmaker suffered a serious knee injury last month and will not play for ‘The Citizens’ again this season.
The last time a Spaniard received the Ballon d’Or was in 1960, when former FC Barcelona midfielder Luis Suárez took home the prize.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman finished in the 14th position
