Prime Minister Edi Rama attended the “Golden Ball 2024” ceremony, which took place at the National Theater of Opera and Ballet. The event was organized by the Albanian Football Federation and hosted by Ardit Gjebrea and Almeda Abazi.

Bekim Balaj was awarded the “Golden Shoe” for the 2023-2024 season in the “Abissnet Superiore” league, having scored 18 goals in 36 matches. His significant goals, along with his determination, helped Vllaznia fight until the end for the championship title, earning a well-deserved place in the “Final Four.”

The “Golden Shoe” was presented to Balaj by football legend Sulejman Demollari, who congratulated him and wished him future success. In the current 2024-2025 season, Balaj continues to lead the goal-scoring charts with 13 goals.

Juxhin Xhaja received the “Referee of the Year 2024” award, chosen by his peers as the best referee of the year. Other nominees included Eldorian Hamiti, Enea Jorgji, and Kreshnik Cjapi.

Xhesika Ndoji, from Apolonia, was named “Talent of the Year 2024” in women’s football. Other nominees in this category included Angela Nikaj, Klesta Ago, and Herta Hasa. Ndoji was presented with her award by Luçije Gjini, coach of the U-19 National Women’s Team.

Ermir Rashica of Skënderbeu won the “Talent of the Year 2024” award for men. He was competing against Ermal Meta, Ledjo Tresaj, and Ergis Arifi.

The nominees for the “Golden Ball 2024” awards were:

Golden Ball 2024 – Men: Bekim Balaj, Arinaldo Rrapaj, Albano Aleksi, Ermir Rashica

Golden Ball 2024 – Women: Ezmiralda Franja, Xhesika Ndoji, Mesuare Begallo, Vanesa Levendi

Coach of the Year 2024: Edlir Tetova, Orges Shehi, Ivan Gvozdenovic, Ilir Daja

Talent of the Year 2024 – Men: Emir Rashica, Ermal Meta, Ledjo Tresaj, Ergis Arifi

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