Luka Modric’s phenomenal victory in the Balon d’Or race marked the end of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s decade-long dominance at the mega footballing event. However, the Croat’s big moment was overshadowed by Norwegian footballer Ada Hegerberg, who became the first woman to bag the illustrious trophy on Monday night.
But unfortunately, the historic night won’t be remembered for the achievement of these two extraordinary talents but the controversy that came along.
In an absolutely shameful act, 23-year-old Hegerberg was asked to twerk live on stage by DJ and presenter Martin Solveig. According to NBC News, the French host embarrassed the Lyon footballer in front of the crowd by asking her if she knows how to do the dance.
Hegerberg, who helped her club win the French title as well as the Champions League, quickly said ‘no’ and tried to leave the stage. However, she agreed to dance on a different song later, with Ginola.
Shortly after the ceremony, Solveig took to Twitter to share a video and apologize for his disgraceful remark.
Sincere apologies to the one I may have offended. My point was : I don’t invite women to twerk but dance on a Sinatra song. Watch the full sequence People who have followed me for 20 years know how respectful I am especially with women pic.twitter.com/pnZX8qvl4R
— Martin Solveig (@martinsolveig) December 3, 2018
I explained to @AdaStolsmo the buzz and she told me she understood it was a joke. Nevertheless my apologies to anyone who may have been offended. Most importantly congratulations to Ada pic.twitter.com/DATdg0TfQk
— Martin Solveig (@martinsolveig) December 3, 2018
The comment sparked outrage on social media with people slamming the presenter for being sexist.
First female ever to win the #BallondOr. Being asked about twerking by the presenter has to be the most disrespectful and shameful thing I have seen.
— Aidan Walsh 🔰 (@AidanWalshMUFC) December 3, 2018
Ada Hegerberg.
UEFA Women's Champions League winner. Three times.
First female ever to win the #BallondOr.
Being asked about twerking.
Blatant sexism in 2018.pic.twitter.com/8flfqRGjJb
— Football Planet (@FoootballPlanet) December 3, 2018
A highly respected, award winning female journalist @PatsKarvelas is ejected from Australian parliament for wearing a sleeveless top….and soccer player @AdaStolsmo is awarded the first ever female #BallonDor and gets asked to twerk on stage by the MC.
Still a long way to go…
— Lisa Wilkinson (@Lisa_Wilkinson) December 3, 2018
Shame on you @francefootball. How could you allow that #twerk question to the best player in the world? Why didn't you ask the same question to Modric? This is a blatant exhibition of sexism that pervades our sport. #AdaHegerberg. #BallondOr
— Alosh K Jose (@aloshkjose) December 4, 2018
Even British Tennis player Andy Murray expressed his anger over the shocking comment.
However, Ada showed the traits of a true champion by moving on from the immoral episode and delivering a speech, that defined class.
According to The Mirror, she highlighted the moment, as the beginning of the rise of women’s football and promised to bring about a change together.
“It’s a huge step for women’s football and together we will make a difference.”
She went on to thank her family and French football for crowning her as the best. Ending her speech, she had an important message for all the young girls out there.
“I would like to end my speech with some words for young girls all over the world. Please, believe in yourself.”
You can watch her full speech here:
While Martin Solveig pulled off an act of sheer stupidity, Hegerberg’s inspiring speech makes us salute the woman. Take a bow, Ada!