Messi curiously absent from the list

Vinicius aims for a long career in football and knows which role models to follow.

In an interview with CNN, published this Tuesday, August 27, 2024, the Real Madrid player paid tribute to several footballers who inspire him.

He draws his motivation from both women's and men's football.

In women's football, Marta is the one who influences him the most. For the 24-year-old, who is tipped to be a candidate for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, Marta is a source of inspiration.

“I have to mention Marta, the greatest player in the history of women's football. I have a lot of admiration for her because she revolutionized the sport and took women's football to the level it deserves. Women's football is growing every day, and Marta was one of the pioneers,” he said.

He added: “For us, Marta represents what Pelé meant to Brazil, just like Ayrton Senna. She belongs to that rare category of unique people.”

On the men's football side, Vinicius is inspired by a multitude of players, whether they are still active or already retired.

“As for male players, Kaká is an example for me, as is Ronaldo, who won the Ballon d'Or twice, and Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, and many other Brazilians who have made football history.

But without a doubt, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho are the ones with whom I have the most connection, those who encourage me every day to win the Ballon d'Or,” he confided.