Vini Jr: champion on and off the pitch

Discover the spectacular trajectory of the Real Madrid striker. Forward Vini Jr.’s name has been making headlines in recent weeks. But, unfortunately, for a reason that saddens us all: the player refused to participate in the Ballon d’Or of France Football magazine, which defines the best player in the world, after losing the award. […]

Discover the spectacular career of the Real Madrid striker

Vini Jr.’s name has been making headlines in recent weeks. But, unfortunately, for a reason that saddens everyone: the player refused to participate in the Ballon d’Or, from the magazine France Footballwho defines him as the best player in the world, after losing the award to Rodri, Manchester City midfielder. The player’s fans suspect that the judges’ decision is racist, as he fought against racial discrimination in football (of which he was even a victim). But here we celebrate athletes with inspiring journeys, regardless of the injustices they may face. So, read more about this athlete who, in our hearts, is the best in the world!

From São Gonçalo to the world!

His full name is Vinícius José Paixão de Oliveira Júnior, and he was born in São Gonçalo, Rio de Janeiro. Vini has played football since he was a child, having been enrolled at Flamengo’s school at the age of six. From that moment on he became an outstanding student and, at the age of 15, was part of the team that won the Copa Brasil de Futebol Infantil.

After signing permanently with Flamengo at the age of 16, he put in an outstanding performance in the 2018 season and became coveted by several European teams. Everyone knew that it was a matter of time before the boy shone in Europe, and the one who won the “fight” for Vini was Real Madrid, who offered the incredible sum of 45 million euros for the player.

Fight against racism

“I’m not a victim of racism, I’m a victim of racists. It’s for all black people. May other racists be afraid, ashamed and hide in the shadows. Otherwise I’ll be here asking for it,” the player said on Instagram after having faced and won a case against three Spanish fans who had verbally attacked him with racist insults while he was playing.

By seeing the trial through to the end, Vini demonstrated to the world that racism can no longer be tolerated behind the scenes. And most importantly, he inspired black people everywhere, showing that they are not alone and should not fear their attackers. It’s worth mentioning that while the player reported the verbal attacks, we had a player from a rival team claim that it was Vini’s ‘fault’ for ‘dancing too much’ and ‘annoying’ the fans. In response, Brazilian internet users launched the hashtag #bailaVini and support for the attacker mobilized thousands of people. “The happiness of a black man who won in Europe is uncomfortable. Accept it, respect it or go crazy, because I won’t stop,” the player joked in a video after the episode.

Hero off the field!

And he doesn’t forget the life he led in São Gonçalo either. That’s because, in 2020, he founded the Vini Jr. Institute, which advocates for Brazilian education. “The institution has invested R$ 20 million to revitalize the Ciep Porto do Rosa Intercultural Brasil – Russia space, in Rio, which had been inactive for ten years. Now, the place will be the headquarters of the Institute, where the player and the His team estimates that approximately 5,000 people will be served with activities focused on education, sports and culture.

Real Madrid’s successes

Since being signed, Vini has quickly risen through the ranks and became a first team player in his first season. He is currently the player with the highest market value in the world, costing 200 million euros (around 1.2 billion reais), according to the Transfermarkt portal, which specializes in transfers. To the dismay of many, he shines and steals the spotlight wherever he goes, and has already etched his name into football history. To conclude, among his main titles we remember:

1. League of Champions:

• 2 titles (2021/22, 2023/24)

2. La Liga (Spanish Championship):

• 3 titles (2019/20, 2021/22, 2023/24)

3. Spanish Super Cup:

• 3 titles (2019/20, 2021/22, 2023/24)

4. King’s Cup:

• 1 title (2022/23)

5. South American U15 Championship:

• 1 title (2015)

6. South American U17 Championship:

• 1 title (2017)

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.