For 28 years, Scotland had become experts in almost-there moments – play-offs lost on penalties, last-minute concessions, campaigns that crumbled when it mattered most. Then came one insane evening at Hampden Park that rewrote everything. A 4-2 win over Denmark turned a nation’s long-suppressed scream into pure, chaotic celebration.

It finished in storybook fashion: Kenny McLean picking the ball up on the halfway line deep into stoppage time and lobbing the keeper from 50 yards. He took off sprinting, arms aloft, chased by the entire team in scenes that looked more like a street party than the end of a World Cup qualifier. Fireworks exploded overhead, Scott McTominay sank to his knees, and an entire country finally breathed out.

A Qualifying Story Too Wild to be Normal

This campaign never did anything the easy way. Injuries, red cards, 90th-minute winners, tactical curveballs – every twist seemed designed to test Scottish hearts one more time. So of course, the decisive match had to be a roller-coaster.

Scott McTominay announced the night’s tone inside three minutes with a sensational overhead kick that ripped the roof off Hampden. He stood there, kissing his fingers to the sky, soaking in a noise he’ll never forget.

Denmark equalised. Scotland went ahead again. Denmark levelled again. With every swing, the old familiar dread crept in – here we go again. Except this time, Scotland refused to blink.

Robertson, McGinn, and the Weight of a Generation

Andy Robertson and John McGinn, both 31 and scarred by more failed qualifiers than most players endure in a lifetime, played like men who knew this might be the last dance. Afterwards in the tunnel they were the loudest, the most emotional – hugging everyone, roaring in disbelief, tears mixing with sweat. They’d carried the hope for years; now they could finally set it down.

Kieran Tierney’s beautiful second-half curler looked for a moment like it might be the goal that sent Scotland through. But the script still had one more outrageous page to turn.

Hampden Loses Its Mind

The crowd lived every kick: hands on heads one minute, embracing strangers the next. Even the press box supposedly a no-emotion zone erupted when McTominay scored; grown journalists jumping and shouting like teenagers.

Then came McLean’s impossible strike. The ball hung in the night sky, dropped perfectly over the stranded keeper and Hampden detonated. Craig Gordon, 42 years old and back for one last ride, just stood there with his gloves over his face, trying to take it in.

A Dream That Took 28 Years to Arrive

Most of this squad were kids or not even born the last time Scotland went to a World Cup in 1998. Now they’ll get to live it. For the older heads it’s the end of a lifetime’s waiting; for the youngsters it’s the beginning of something huge.

When the stadium emptied, Craig Gordon stayed on the pitch with his family, calmly taking photos while the echoes of euphoria still bounced around the stands.

After nearly three decades of hurt, Scotland are going to the World Cup again and they did it in a way no one will ever forget. Football, on nights like this, is everything.

In a bold move, Alpine has announced it will switch to Mercedes engines in 2026, ending a long chapter of partnership with Renault. This significant change in strategy will make Alpine the fourth team to be powered by Mercedes engines, joining a growing list of teams to benefit from the German manufacturer’s expertise and performance.

The End of an Era: No More Renault Engines for Alpine

The announcement marks the end of Alpine’s reliance on Renault engines, which have powered the team since its rebranding in 2021. Despite several strong moments, including occasional podium finishes, the Renault engine has often struggled to keep up with the competition in the current generation of F1 regulations, introduced in 2014. For Alpine, the decision to shift to Mercedes power comes as a strategic move to enhance performance and adapt to the upcoming changes in F1 engine regulations.

Alpine to Become the Fourth Mercedes-Powered Team in 2026

This partnership with Mercedes means that from 2026, Alpine will be one of four teams powered by Mercedes engines. Currently, Mercedes supplies engines to three other teams, and with Alpine joining the fold, it solidifies Mercedes’ position as the dominant engine supplier in the sport. This move is seen as a potential game-changer for Alpine, who will now have access to Mercedes’ superior engineering and power, which could boost their competitiveness in the sport.

The partnership will see Alpine not only adopt Mercedes’ power units but also benefit from Mercedes’ gearboxes, ensuring the team has the complete package for the new generation of Formula 1 regulations. This shift is expected to significantly impact Alpine’s performance as they work toward becoming a leading contender in F1.

Why the Change?

For Alpine, the decision to no longer use Renault engines and instead switch to Mercedes power is rooted in a desire for greater performance and consistency. While Renault’s engine program has had its successes, Alpine has struggled to match the speed and reliability of competitors like Mercedes and Ferrari in recent seasons.

With the introduction of new F1 engine regulations in 2026, Alpine is looking to align itself with a supplier that can offer not only cutting-edge performance but also the engineering expertise needed to meet the evolving demands of the sport. Mercedes, with its proven track record of success and dominance in the hybrid era, is seen as the perfect fit for Alpine’s aspirations.

Looking Ahead: Alpine’s Future with Mercedes Power

As Alpine prepares to enter the 2026 season with Mercedes engines powering their cars, the team will no longer be burdened by the challenges of developing an engine internally. The shift will allow them to focus more on their chassis development and overall race strategy. With Mercedes providing a reliable and competitive engine, Alpine’s ambitions to climb the F1 ladder are likely to be accelerated.

This partnership is also part of a broader trend in Formula 1, where teams are increasingly relying on established, high-performance engine suppliers. With Mercedes now supplying engines to four teams, including Alpine, the manufacturer is solidifying its role as a key player in F1 for years to come.

The announcement that Alpine will switch to Mercedes engines in 2026 signals a new era for the team and the sport. By joining the ranks of the Mercedes-powered teams, Alpine aims to leverage Mercedes’ superior technology and engineering to bolster their performance on the grid. As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Alpine to see how their switch to Mercedes power shapes their future in Formula 1.

The Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated showdowns in boxing history. On Friday, November 15, 2024, Mike Tyson will return to the ring for only his second fight since retiring in 2005, and his opponent is none other than the controversial YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul. This fight has been years in the making, and it promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.

The Road to the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight

After multiple delays, health concerns, and constant speculation, the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight will finally take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. For Tyson, this fight marks a return to the sport, while for Jake Paul, it’s another step in his quest to prove himself as a legitimate force in the world of fighting.

Leading up to this monumental event, the excitement is palpable, and fight fans are buzzing with anticipation. To add to the drama, there will be a series of events this week designed to build the hype for the big night.

The Event Schedule

Starting on Tuesday, November 12, a week of thrilling events will unfold. Here’s a look at the schedule:

• Wednesday, November 13: The Final Press Conference at 7 p.m. ET at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas, will set the stage for the fight. Fans can catch the press conference live across multiple platforms, including Netflix’s YouTube channels, Instagram, and Tudum.
• Thursday, November 14: Public Weigh-ins at 7 p.m. ET. This key moment will let fans see the fighters up close before the Jake Paul fight. Streaming will be available on Netflix’s YouTube and TikTok.
• Friday, November 15:
  • Preliminary Card at 5:30 p.m. ET: The night kicks off with several exciting matchups, including Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool for the vacant WBO Super Middleweight title.
  • Main Card at 8 p.m. ET: The long-awaited Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul will be the highlight of the evening, available globally via Netflix.

Full Fight Card

In addition to the headlining Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight, the night will feature several action-packed bouts, including:

• Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson (Heavyweight Bout)
• Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano (Undisputed Lightweight Title)
• Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos (WBC Welterweight Title)
• Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool (WBO Super Middleweight Title)
• Lucas Bahdi vs. Armando Casamonica (Lightweight Bout)
• Bruce Carrington vs. Dana Coolwell (Featherweight Bout)
• Neeraj Goyat vs. Whindersson Nunes (Middleweight Bout)

Each of these bouts will bring its own level of excitement to the night, making it a must-watch event for any fighting fan.

How to Watch the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Fight

For the first time, the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight will be streamed exclusively on Netflix, available on all Netflix plans. The Jake Paul fight will begin with the preliminary card at 5:30 p.m. ET, followed by the main card, including the Tyson vs Paul fight, at 8:00 p.m. ET. Make sure to set your reminders for this unforgettable night of action.

What’s at Stake in the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight?

The stakes are high for both fighters. For Mike Tyson, the Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul event represents a chance to prove that, despite his age, he still has the skills to dominate in the ring. Tyson is a living legend in the sport, and this fight will add another chapter to his incredible legacy.

For Jake Paul, this fight is a golden opportunity to solidify his place in the world of boxing. Known for his controversial and brash persona, Paul has already won over a large fan base, but a victory over Tyson would elevate his status to a whole new level, proving that he’s more than just a YouTuber. It would be a huge statement in the world of fighting.

Why the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight Is So Special

This fight isn’t just about boxing. It’s about two larger-than-life personalities from completely different worlds coming together for a historic battle. Tyson, a former world champion with a storied career, and Paul, a modern-day internet sensation, are set to collide in the ring in a match that has fans and analysts alike buzzing with excitement. The clash between experience and youth, legend and upstart, has generated incredible interest.

Don’t Miss the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight

The Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight on November 15 promises to be an epic showdown that boxing fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re tuning in to see Tyson make his return to the ring or watching Jake Paul’s next move in his boxing journey, this event will deliver fighting action and drama like never before.

So, mark your calendars, grab your popcorn, and get ready for a night that will go down in history. The Jake Paul fight with Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul could very well be the most talked-about event in boxing for years to come.

Known for his iconic “Woj Bombs” — the term coined for his relentless NBA breaking news and reporting — ESPN’s senior insider Adrian Wojnarowski delivered a personal bombshell on Wednesday. The renowned sports journalist announced his retirement from the news industry, signaling the end of an era for NBA coverage. Wojnarowski revealed that he would be stepping away from his role at ESPN to take on a new challenge: becoming the general manager of the men’s basketball team at his alma mater, St. Bonaventure University.In a heartfelt message posted to social media, Wojnarowski reflected on his career and the decision to walk away from the fast-paced world of NBA news. “Thirty-seven years ago, the Hartford Courant gave me my first byline and I never stopped chasing the thrill of it all. This craft transformed my life, but I’ve decided to retire from ESPN and the news industry,” Wojnarowski wrote. “I understand the commitment required in my role and it’s an investment that I’m no longer driven to make. Time isn’t in endless supply, and I want to spend mine in ways that are more personally meaningful. I leave with overwhelming gratitude for countless mentors and colleagues, subjects and stories, readers and viewers. No one has benefitted more than me from the belief, trust, and generosity of others.”

Wojnarowski’s departure from ESPN marks the conclusion of a remarkable run at the sports network, where he had become synonymous with NBA breaking news. Since joining ESPN in 2017 as its senior NBA insider, Wojnarowski was the go-to source for fans, athletes, and insiders alike, often scooping major stories before anyone else. Before his time at ESPN, Wojnarowski built his reputation at Yahoo Sports, where he spent nearly a decade, and also had stints at The Record of New Jersey, The Fresno Bee, and The Waterbury (Conn.) Republican-American.

In response to the news of his retirement, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro praised Wojnarowski’s work ethic and dedication to journalism. “I’ve known and admired Woj since we first worked together at Yahoo! in 2007. His work ethic is second to none. He’s extraordinarily talented and fearless. He has led the industry at ESPN, and his dedication to the craft and to fans is legendary,” Pitaro said in a statement. “While we will miss his daily output, we completely understand his decision to make a lifestyle change and slow down a bit. We know he will continue to thrive in this next chapter, and he has our collective gratitude and support.”

For Wojnarowski, this new chapter represents a return to his roots. A 1991 graduate of St. Bonaventure University, Wojnarowski has maintained a deep connection with the school throughout his career. He was named the Alumnus of the Year in 2019 and inducted onto the Russell Jandoli School of Communication’s Wall of Distinguished Graduates, a testament to his enduring influence and contribution to journalism. Now, he will return to the university in a more direct role, helping to shape the future of its men’s basketball program.

“After all these years reporting on everyone’s teams, I’m headed back to my own,” Wojnarowski said. His role as general manager of the St. Bonaventure men’s basketball team will involve advising the coaching staff on a range of critical issues, including name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities, managing the transfer portal, fundraising, and recruiting. In an era of rapid changes within college sports, including the rise of NIL and the ever-fluid nature of player transfers, Wojnarowski’s experience and strategic insight are expected to be invaluable to the Bonnies’ program.

“I’m thrilled and humbled to return to St. Bonaventure with an opportunity to serve the university, Coach Mark Schmidt, and our elite Atlantic 10 men’s basketball program,” Wojnarowski said in a statement. “In these changing times of college sports, I’m eager to join a championship program that combines high-level basketball, national television exposure, pro preparation, and NIL opportunities with an intimate, supportive educational environment.” His move to join the Bonnies’ staff underscores his deep commitment to the school and his enthusiasm for helping guide the basketball program through an increasingly complex college sports landscape.

Last season, the Bonnies finished with a respectable 20-13 overall record and a 9-9 mark in the competitive Atlantic 10 Conference. With Wojnarowski’s addition to the program’s leadership, there is hope that the team can continue to grow and excel in the coming years. His vast network of contacts within the basketball world, combined with his knowledge of the game’s inner workings, makes him a significant asset for St. Bonaventure.

The three-time National Sports Media Association’s National Sportswriter of the Year leaves behind a legacy as one of the most respected figures in sports journalism. Over the course of his career, Wojnarowski became known for his dogged pursuit of the truth, his unrelenting work ethic, and his ability to consistently break some of the biggest stories in basketball. For NBA fans, his “Woj Bombs” became a staple of the modern sports media landscape, often shaking the league with surprising trade news, free-agent signings, and coaching changes.

While Wojnarowski’s retirement from reporting marks the end of an era, his contributions to the sports world will continue in his new role. His upcoming introduction as St. Bonaventure’s basketball general manager is scheduled for next Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, where he will officially begin the next phase of his illustrious career.

Jordan Chiles, the talented American gymnast, has taken a significant step in her quest for justice by appealing a controversial decision that cost her an Olympic bronze medal. This move follows a ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which upheld a challenge from the Romanian gymnastics team regarding a revision of her score in the floor exercise. Chiles had initially earned her first individual Olympic medal, only to see it slip away after CAS determined that her score should be altered based on the Romanian team’s objections. As a result, the bronze medal was awarded to Romania’s Ana Bǎrbosu, a decision that has left Chiles and her supporters feeling wronged and frustrated. In response, her legal team has filed an appeal to the Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland, where CAS is headquartered, arguing that the entire process leading to the decision was fundamentally flawed and unfair.

Chiles’s attorneys have articulated their concerns clearly, asserting that CAS violated her “right to be heard.” They claim that crucial video evidence demonstrating that her inquiry was submitted on time was ignored during the proceedings. Furthermore, they allege that Chiles was not adequately informed about a potential conflict of interest involving the President of the CAS panel, raising serious questions about the integrity of the decision-making process. Maurice M. Suh, counsel for Chiles, emphasised that this situation presents a straightforward legal question for the international community: will they allow an athlete who has acted with integrity to be stripped of her medal due to systemic unfairness? Suh’s comments underscore the broader implications of this case, suggesting that the principles of fair play and justice must be upheld within the Olympic framework.

The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has also voiced its unwavering support for Chiles. In a statement, they expressed determination to ensure she receives the recognition she deserves, citing significant errors made by CAS in handling her case. The USOPC criticised the oversight that led to the disregard of clear evidence supporting Chiles’s rightful bronze win. Their commitment to truth and justice in this matter reflects a growing sentiment among athletes and advocates who believe in accountability within the sporting world. Meanwhile, USA Gymnastics (USAG) has indicated that while it is not directly involved in the appeal at this stage, it is coordinating closely with Chiles and her legal team to provide necessary support. USAG plans to make supportive filings with the court to assist in the pursuit of justice for Chiles, highlighting a collective effort to address perceived injustices within the gymnastics community.

This situation has sparked conversations about the fairness of the arbitration processes used in high-stakes athletic competitions. Many observers are questioning whether these procedures adequately protect athletes’ rights and ensure equitable treatment. Chiles, known for her fierce competitive spirit and commitment to integrity, has become a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity. Her case serves as a reminder that athletes must not only compete on the field but also navigate complex legal and institutional challenges off it. The support she has received from both the USOPC and USAG demonstrates a collective commitment to advocating for fairness in sports, echoing sentiments shared by fans and fellow athletes alike.

As Chile continues her legal battle, the outcome remains uncertain, but her determination to reclaim her medal has inspired many. The broader implications of her appeal may extend beyond her individual case, potentially influencing how disputes are handled within the Olympic framework. Athletes and advocates alike are watching closely, hoping for a resolution that honours the principles of fair play and justice. The case highlights the critical need for transparency and fairness in sports governance, emphasising that athletes should be treated with respect and dignity. As the appeals process unfolds, Chiles’s journey represents not just a fight for a medal but a broader struggle for equity in the world of competitive gymnastics. In an arena where the stakes are high and the pressures immense, Chiles’s commitment to holding organisations accountable reflects a growing movement within athletics, advocating for a system that prioritises fairness and integrity for all competitors.

Daniel Ricciardo is widely celebrated in Formula One for his charismatic personality and competitive spirit. Known for his affable nature and formidable racing skills, the Australian driver has built an enviable career. With eight race wins and 32 podium finishes, he ranks 35th on the all-time list. His achievements include two top-three finishes in the World Drivers’ Championship and outshining the legendary Sebastian Vettel in Vettel’s final season with Red Bull Racing. Remarkably, Ricciardo has competed in 14 consecutive F1 seasons since his debut in 2011, accumulating 1,329 points from 256 races—all while maintaining his trademark smile.

Nicknamed the “Honey Badger,” Ricciardo’s blend of charm and fierce racing has made him a standout figure in the sport. At 35, he is the fourth-oldest driver on the grid and remains committed to inspiring the next generation of racers. “I recognise that I have a platform to inspire others who were once like me,” Ricciardo told. His willingness to share his experiences with competitors and lend a hand underscores his dedication to both the sport and his peers.

Ricciardo’s roots in Perth, Western Australia, play a significant role in his story. His latest film, “Drive the Dream 2,” highlights his deep connection to his homeland, featuring a road trip with his best friend, Blake Mills, exploring Western Australia’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. This personal journey also includes a visit to Ngilgi Cave, an important site in Aboriginal mythology, reflecting Ricciardo’s respect for his cultural background.

Australia has a rich F1 history, with 15 drivers contributing to 137 podiums and 44 wins. Ricciardo became the 14th Australian driver when he debuted with HRT in 2011, later replacing Mark Webber at Red Bull Racing. He currently competes alongside Melbourne-born Oscar Piastri and will be joined in 2025 by Jack Doohan, the 16th Australian F1 driver.

Ricciardo’s career has seen its share of highs and lows, from notable victories to challenging seasons with Renault and McLaren. Despite these ups and downs, his ultimate goal remains to become a World Champion. “I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, but I’m not fully satisfied because my aim was always to be a world champion,” he reflects.

Returning to Red Bull as a test and reserve driver for the 2023 season marked a significant moment in Ricciardo’s career. His adaptability and resilience in facing pressure have kept him relevant in the sport. As he approaches the latter stages of his career, Ricciardo remains focused on his goals, and his journey continues to captivate fans and shape his legacy in Formula One.

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner captured his second Grand Slam singles title with a victory over American Taylor Fritz at the US Open, winning 6-3, 6-4, 7-5 at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday.

Fritz, ranked No. 12 in the world, was aiming to become the first American man to secure a Grand Slam singles title in 21 years, with Andy Roddick being the last, having won the US Open in 2003.

Sinner, 23, extends his winning streak to 11 matches and follows his Australian Open triumph earlier this year. He joins Flavia Pennetta as one of the only Italian singles champions in US Open history.

In his post-match comments, Sinner expressed the deep significance of the win, reflecting on the challenges of recent times and dedicating the title to his ailing aunt. He acknowledged her vital role in his life and support during his formative years.

Fritz’s run to the final marked the first time an American man had reached a Grand Slam singles final since Roddick’s 2009 Wimbledon appearance. Although he fell short, Fritz, who had previously only reached the quarterfinals at majors, expressed gratitude for the support and vowed to continue working towards future success.

The match saw a momentum shift in the third set, with Fritz taking a 5-3 lead before Sinner rallied to win the final four games and secure the championship.

Sinner’s win comes amidst recent controversy involving a doping case, which was resolved with no fault or negligence on his part. Despite this, Sinner and his team remained focused and prepared, which contributed to his performance.

This year marks the first since 2002 that none of the men’s tennis “Big Three”—Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, or Roger Federer—won a Grand Slam, with Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz claiming the majors instead.

The US Open also saw high-profile attendees, including Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, Patrick and Brittany Mahomes, Matthew McConaughey, Martha Stewart, Noah Lyles, and Elon Musk.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc managed to secure a thrilling victory at his team’s home race in Monza, Italy, skillfully nursing his increasingly worn tires to the finish line ahead of a charging Oscar Piastri. Piastri, who had led for much of the race after overtaking his McLaren teammate and polesitter Lando Norris at the first chicane, had opted for a two-stop strategy due to concerns over tire degradation. As Norris also pitted, Ferrari’s Leclerc and Carlos Sainz took the lead. Despite Piastri’s late surge on fresher tires, he couldn’t close the gap and finished second, with Norris overtaking Sainz to take third.

The win sparked ecstatic celebrations from thousands of Italian tifosi who filled the grandstands, flooding onto the track to witness Leclerc celebrate on the podium, with a massive Ferrari banner and red smoke filling the air. Leclerc, who is third in the driver standings, expressed his joy, comparing the emotions to his 2019 victory and emphasizing the significance of winning at Monza and Monaco, which he considers the most important races of the season. He praised the tifosi and reflected on how special this win was.

Meanwhile, Norris was visibly disappointed, having dropped from first to third after a series of mistakes and a less effective race strategy. Despite this, he managed to close the gap to Max Verstappen in the driver standings and showcased McLaren’s competitive pace. Verstappen finished sixth but remains well ahead in the championship. Piastri, who finished second, expressed his frustration, acknowledging that while the pace was strong, the final result was disappointing. He admitted that the team’s strategy decisions played a role in the outcome, making the close second-place finish particularly painful.

Carlos Alcaraz faced a stunning defeat in the US Open second round on Thursday, losing to Botic van de Zandschulp in straight sets. The Dutchman, ranked 74th in the world, triumphed over the 21-year-old Spaniard with scores of 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing Meadows, New York.

Alcaraz, the world No. 3 who recently claimed an Olympic silver medal and the Wimbledon title, struggled from the start and never found his rhythm, ending the match with 28 errors. Van de Zandschulp sealed his victory with an ace, marking his first win over a top-10 player at a Grand Slam and delivering one of the tournament’s biggest upsets in recent years. The crowd applauded the Dutchman’s remarkable performance as Alcaraz acknowledged him and waved to the audience before leaving the court.

In a post-match interview with ESPN, Van de Zandschulp expressed his astonishment. “It’s been an incredible evening,” he said. “Playing my first night session at Arthur Ashe with such an amazing crowd was unbelievable.”

He admitted to feeling nervous while closing out the match but emphasized the need for composure against top players. “You have to stay unbelievably calm and focused; otherwise, they will take advantage.”

Alcaraz’s defeat ends his 15-match unbeaten streak at the US Open and marks his earliest exit from a major since Wimbledon 2021. Van de Zandschulp, who has only progressed past the fourth round of a Grand Slam once, will face British 25th seed Jack Draper in the third round on Saturday.

Real Madrid superstar Vinícius Jr. is aiming for a historic season, revealing in an exclusive interview that he believes Los Blancos have the potential to achieve a historic treble. The Brazilian forward also expressed his desire to follow in the footsteps of his Brazilian idols by winning the Ballon d’Or.

In a conversation at his Madrid home, Vinícius expressed confidence in Real Madrid’s chances of excelling across all major competitions this season as they prepare to defend their Champions League title.

“Every year, our goal is to win every title we can,” Vinícius stated, reflecting on the club’s ambitions before their sixth European Super Cup victory against Atalanta.

Could Madrid Achieve Their First-Ever Treble?

Despite its numerous successes, Real Madrid has never achieved a European treble, comprising the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey. FC Barcelona remains the only Spanish club to have accomplished this feat, doing so in 2009 and 2015.

Vinícius Jr. explained why the treble has proven elusive, noting, “The Copa del Rey often disrupts our chances because it involves challenging teams throughout January, a period packed with games. This makes the cup competition particularly tricky.” While Vinícius emphasized that winning the club’s 16th Champions League is the squad’s top priority, he is also driven by the desire to “finally secure the treble.”

“The Champions League is the most challenging and prestigious competition, and it’s where Real Madrid always aims to excel,” he said. “Our fans expect us to win it, and so our focus is on achieving success in every competition we enter, with the ultimate goal of securing the treble.”

To truly grasp Vinícius Jr.’s impact over the past season, one needs to look at the numbers. His 15 league goals played a pivotal role in securing another Spanish title for Real Madrid. Additionally, his decisive goal in the Champions League final helped clinch Madrid’s second title in three years with a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley.

“I’ve always dreamed of playing for Real Madrid, so I cherish every moment as if it were the last,” Vinícius said. “Everyone wants to win with the best team in the world, and being able to score so many goals in important matches and contribute so significantly… I’m only 24, and I aim to continue this way for many more years, making history with this incredible team. Not everyone gets this opportunity, so I emphasize savoring every moment in this jersey.”

Despite missing two months of the 2023/24 season from November to January, Vinícius ended the campaign as Madrid’s top scorer, with 24 goals and 11 assists.

Dreams of Gold

With his ability to deliver in crucial moments and impressive statistics throughout the season for one of the world’s top clubs, it’s no surprise that Vinícius Jr. is the favorite to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, awarded to the best player in the world.

For Vinícius, claiming the award represents more than just personal achievement; it’s about honoring his Brazilian heritage and joining the ranks of his country’s greatest soccer stars. He aims to follow in the footsteps of legends like Marta, Ronaldo Nazário, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, and Kaká, all of whom have been recognized as the best in the world at various points in their careers.

“Marta is a true icon in women’s football. I deeply admire her for elevating the sport and making women’s football as respected as it deserves to be. She’s a pioneer, much like Pelé and Ayrton Senna are to Brazil,” Vinícius said.

He added, “For the men’s game, Kaká, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo are my role models. Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, in particular, are close to me and consistently encourage me to strive for the Ballon d’Or.”

Vinícius also shared that he has recently spent time training with Ronaldo Nazário, receiving personal guidance from the legendary forward.

“I recently trained at Ronaldo’s house in Ibiza, and he advised me, ‘Spend a few more days training here, and you’ll be closer to winning the Ballon d’Or.’ These are players who have achieved extraordinary things, and competing for the Ballon d’Or and winning an award that they have won would be truly incredible.”

The New Galácticos Era

Teammates Jude Bellingham and the newly signed Kylian Mbappé will be Vinícius Jr.’s primary rivals for the Ballon d’Or in October, as this latest version of Real Madrid boasts exceptional talent across the board.

Despite Mbappé being a key contender for football’s top honor, Vinícius is thrilled to have the former PSG star join the Spanish giants. “The team has been very strong for a long time,” he said.

“With Mbappé’s arrival, people are talking about the potential for us to become unstoppable, but for now, we need to focus on having great training sessions and quickly building our understanding on the field.”

Vinícius, who has long admired Mbappé from afar, is excited about playing alongside the World Cup winner. He expressed his admiration for Mbappé’s style and achievements, saying, “I love how he plays and I’m really looking forward to what we can achieve this season. He’s joining us after scoring many goals and winning numerous titles, and he’s coming to the club he has always dreamed of playing for—Real Madrid.”

“God willing, Mbappé will score as many goals for us as he did with his previous team and the national team, and hopefully even more with us,” Vinícius said.

While Vinícius assisted on the opening goal and Mbappé scored in his official debut for Los Blancos during a 2-0 UEFA Super Cup victory, Madrid stumbled in their La Liga opener against a determined Mallorca side, settling for a 1-1 draw away from home. This result highlighted the need for the team to develop better cohesion before reaching their peak performance.

Despite the setback in Son Moix and experiencing some early struggles in their home opener against Real Valladolid—where they eventually secured a 3-0 win—the stage is set for what promises to be an exceptionally successful season for Madrid.

Focused on Achieving Success with Madrid

Recently, there have been rumors suggesting that Vinícius Jr. was offered an astonishing $1 billion to move to Saudi Arabia, similar to speculation about his new teammate Mbappé in July 2023.

Despite the buzz, the Brazilian star made his future intentions clear: “I always strive to be among the best, and with each passing day at Real Madrid, I grow more confident.”

“I’ve already won two Champions Leagues, and I play alongside teammates who have each won six titles—like Dani Carvajal. Their experience motivates us daily to push beyond our limits andshows that anything is possible with our current team shows that anything is possible with our current team.

Achieving two Champions League victories in three years was incredibly challenging. Staying at the top level is even harder, so my goal is to maintain this level of performance for a long time and win as many Champions League titles as Carvajal, Luka Modrić, Nacho, and Toni Kroos, who have each won six.

We might have one of the best teams for the coming decade, and now it’s up to us to demonstrate our capability on the pitch. With each game, my teammates and I are working towards winning even more titles for Real Madrid.”