Representing his son at the ceremony this Wednesday, Rodri‘s father accepted the King Felipe Award for the Best Athlete of 2023 on his behalf. The Manchester City midfielder was unable to attend due to his commitment to his club’s Premier League fixture against Fulham this evening.
The accolade recognizes an extraordinary year for the Spanish international, during which he secured a historic treble with his club—the Premier League, the UEFA Champions League, and the FA Cup—while also triumphing with the Spanish national team in the UEFA Nations League. This constellation of titles subsequently propelled him to Ballon d’Or glory the following year.
Having navigated a challenging period marked by significant health issues, including a cruciate ligament tear sustained in September 2024, Rodri has made a confident return to the pitch. His focus is now firmly set on the upcoming World Cup to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Father’s Remarks on Recovery and Future Speculation
Following the award presentation, Antonio Hernández provided an update on his son’s condition. “I believe he is fine; it is sufficient to watch him during the matches,” he stated. “We asked him to moderate his effort, but he remains committed to it. The procedure went perfectly, which is paramount. He has returned to playing, and in his first match, he was nearly the Rodri we all know.”
When questioned about the player’s future, his father responded with playful evasion, as reported by the newspaper “Marca”. “I cannot confirm anything, I do not know,” he remarked before laughing and adding, “He is exceedingly content in his current environment. Negotiations for a contract are underway, and one must comprehend the natural progression of such matters. History is being written.”
This commentary arrives amidst recent media reports suggesting keen interest from Real Madrid in acquiring Rodri, whose current agreement with Manchester City is set to expire in June 2027.
Reflecting on the honor bestowed upon his son, Antonio Hernández expressed profound admiration. “To be the father of someone who realized his dream throughout the years for which he received this award, and then won the Ballon d’Or, is truly incredible,” he affirmed. “One must contextualize it appropriately; otherwise, it seems beyond belief. Rodri has always derived his happiness from exerting maximum effort; he only feels fulfilled when doing so.”
Regarding the management of such high-profile success, Rodri’s father emphasized the psychological dimension. “The most crucial aspect is the athlete’s mental well-being,” he indicated. “And the family’s role in cultivating a suitable environment to support that. Rodri has been persevering since his youth, consistently striving to deliver his utmost, not merely to attain fame. What his surroundings provide him is assurance and serenity.”