Ballon d'Or: Rodri, Bonmatí are best men's, women's players

Associated Press Paris: Spanish midfielders Rodri and Aitana Bonmatí won the men's and women's Ballon d'Or award for the world's best soccer player. The 28-year-old Rodri on Monday won the prestigious award for the first time after helping Manchester City win the Premier League and being a key player in Spain's European Championship triumph. He succeeded eight-time winner Lionel Messi of Argentina. Rodri put his hands over his face when his name was read out by former winner George Weah. "Incredible night for me," said Rodri, who is out for the season after injuring his ACL last month and arrived on crutches to the ceremony.

"One of my key things is I always try to improve every game." The 26-year-old Bonmatí retained her award after helping Barcelona win the Spanish league, the Spanish cup and the Champions League. Bonmatí joined Barca teammate Alexia Putellas in winning two titles since the women's trophy was first awarded in 2018. She beat her teammates Caroline Graham Hansen of Norway and Salma Paralluelo of Spain as Barcelona completed a 1-2-3.

Yamal's trophy: On a good night for Spain and Barca players, teen prodigy Lamine Yamal the youngestever scorer at a European Championship won the Kopa award for best Under-21 player and Barca won the best women's team award. Real Madrid was voted the best men's team.

Former PSG forward Kylian Mbappé and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane shared the Gerd Mueller award for most club and country goals last season with 52. Mbappé joined Madrid during the off-season. Argentina's penalty-saving specialist Martínez retained the Lev Yashin award for best goalkeeper. Ancelotti and Olympicwinning coach Emma Hayes won the Johan Cruyff award for best men's and women's coach. Spain forward Jenni Hermoso, who has fought sexism in Spanish soccer after she was kissed on the lips at last year's Women's World Cup final.