Paris Saint-Germain star Ousmane Dembele has been awarded the prestigious Ballon d’Or for 2025, recognizing his outstanding performances in PSG’s historic Champions League-winning campaign. Spain’s Aitana Bonmati continued her dominance in women’s football by securing the award for the third consecutive year.
Dembele, 28, narrowly beat Barcelona’s young sensation Lamine Yamal to lift the trophy, succeeding last year’s winner Rodri. The French forward, who previously played for Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona, enjoyed his best-ever season, scoring 35 goals across all competitions. His transformation into a centre-forward after Kylian Mbappe’s departure proved decisive as PSG went on to clinch the French league, domestic cup, and their first-ever Champions League title.
In the final, PSG delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in Munich. Dembele described the season as “incredible” and praised coach Luis Enrique, who was also honored as the club coach of the year, saying he had been “like a father” throughout the campaign. He emphasized that the award reflected PSG’s collective success, highlighting the contributions of his teammates.
Meanwhile, teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal did not leave empty-handed, securing the Kopa Trophy for the best player under 21 for the second consecutive year. His rapid rise continues to mark him as one of the brightest stars in world football.
On the women’s side, Aitana Bonmati, 27, reaffirmed her status as one of the greatest midfielders of her generation. Despite losing the Women’s Champions League final with Barcelona and falling to England in the Women’s Euro 2025 final, Bonmati’s individual brilliance stood out. She was named Player of the Tournament at the Euros, overcoming early health challenges to inspire her team.
Bonmati edged out her Spanish teammate Mariona Caldentey, while England’s Alessia Russo finished third. Her three consecutive wins follow the back-to-back triumphs of Alexia Putellas, cementing Barcelona’s dominance in women’s football.
Other award winners included PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, who received the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper before moving to Manchester City, and England’s Hannah Hampton, who claimed the women’s goalkeeper award. Sarina Wiegman was recognized as best women’s coach, further underlining England’s growing influence in the global game.
The Ballon d’Or, voted for by journalists from FIFA’s top-ranked nations, remains football’s most prestigious individual honor. Dembele and Bonmati’s victories not only celebrate personal excellence but also reflect the strength of PSG and Spain in shaping the current era of football.
